Freshwater Fishes of Connecticut

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• Gizzard Shad

  Gizzard shad were first observed in Connecticut during the late 1970s, apparently the result of a natural range expansion.

• Atlantic Salmon

  Atlantic salmon were extirpated from the Connecticut River and, despite extensive restoration efforts, self-sustaining runs do not occur.

• Blueback Herring

  Blueback herring and alewives are so similar that the color of the gut lining (peritoneum) is the only sure way to tell them apart.

• Banded Sunfish

  The banded sunfish is listed as a Connecticut State Threatened Species. Their small size makes them vulnerable to predation by bass and other large gamefish, so they thrive only in protected, backwater areas.

• White Perch

  Adorned with an armament of long, sharp spines, white perch are difficult for both anglers and predators to handle.

• Walleye

  Although relatively feeble fighters on rod and reel, walleye are an esteemed game and food fish throughout their range.

• Striped Bass

  Striped bass grow large and are arguably the most important inshore predator and sport fish in the state.

• Mimic Shiner

  Looking a lot like other shiners gave the mimic shiner its name.

• Pike and Pickerel

  Two native and one introduced pike species exist in Connecticut. All members of the family are predacious, primarily feeding on fish.

• How to Observe and Appreciate Fishes

  Learn about all the ways you can watch Connecticut's many freshwater fishes!