WikiCatch
Alewife
Alosa pseudoharengus
Overview
The alewife is an anadromous species of herring found in North America. It is one of the "typical" North American shads, attributed to the subgenus Pomolobus of the genus Alosa. As an adult it is a marine species found in the northern West Atlantic Ocean, moving into estuaries before swimming upstream to breed in freshwater habitats, but some populations live entirely in fresh water. It is best known for its invasion of the Great Lakes by using the Welland Canal to bypass Niagara Falls. Here, its population surged, peaking between the 1950s and 1980s to the detriment of many native species of fish. In an effort to control it biologically, Pacific salmon were introduced, only partially successfully. As a marine fish, the alewife is a US National Marine Fisheries Service "Species of Concern".
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Worms
Use small pieces on a small hook.
- Minnows
Hook behind the dorsal fin.
- Nightcrawlers
Cut into smaller pieces.
- Waxworms
Effective under a bobber.
- Maggots
Excellent for ice fishing.
Artificial Lures
- Mepps Aglia #0SpinnerBuy
Silver or gold blade is effective.
- Blue Fox Vibrax Foxtail Spinner #2SpinnerBuy
Vibration attracts alewives.
- Kastmaster 1/8 ozSpoonBuy
Silver or gold color works well.
- Charlie Brewer's Slider Grub 2 inchSoft PlasticBuy
Use a small jig head.
- Clouser MinnowFlyBuy
White or chartreuse patterns.
Techniques
Alewives often school tightly, so focus your efforts on areas where you see surface activity or baitfish concentrations, as this improves your chances of hooking several fish in a short period of time.
As an Amazon Associate, WikiCatch earns from qualifying purchases.
Where to Find Alewife
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Alewife?+
Popular baits for Alewife include Worms, Minnows, Nightcrawlers, Waxworms, Maggots. Tip: Alewives often school tightly, so focus your efforts on areas where you see surface activity or baitfish concentrations, as this improves your chances of hooking several fish in a short period of time.
Where can I catch Alewife?+
Alewife can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Nova Scotia, Canada; Maine, United States; New Brunswick / Nouveau-Brunswick, Canada. WikiCatch lists 77 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Alewife get?+
Alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) can reach up to 40.0000006 cm in length and 1 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
Get WikiCatch on iPhone
360,000+ fishing spots, AI fish ID, weather & solunar — free.
Download on the App Store