It is this behavior that makes spooning in the late fall and winter a deadly catcher. It is particularly effective for White Bass, Spotted Bass, and Stripers. You can generally find this bait in ALL creeks, with Flat Creek being your best bet year round. This bait is the easiest to catch. Gizzard shad exhibit the typical herring body shape with a wide body that is stocky in nature.
Color ranges from bright silvery blue-green on the back, silvery sides and a dull white belly.
A dark shoulder spot is common on younger fish but may be absent from adults. The front of the head is rounded with a subterminal mouth. Bottom jaw or lip is not very strong. Teeth are absent. There are about 190 rakers on the lower limb of the first gill arch.