The hickory shad (Alosa mediocris) is an anadromous fish native to the Atlantic coast of North America, ranging from Maine to Florida, with the highest concentrations found in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern United States. Recognized for its silvery body and distinctively protruding lower jaw, the hickory shad is a popular target for recreational anglers, especially during its spring spawning runs in rivers and estuaries. Unlike some other shad species, the hickory shad is not widely targeted by commercial fisheries, and its harvest is largely limited to the United States, particularly in states such as North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland. These regions have a long tradition of shad fishing, both for sport and, to a lesser extent, for local consumption. Other countries do not have significant hickory shad populations or fisheries, making the United States the primary country associated with the harvest and cultural heritage of this unique fish species.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 44 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.