Common Shiner
Luxilus cornutus
Common Shiner (Luxilus cornutus) is a widespread North American minnow that often forms large schools in clear, moderate streams and small rivers. It feeds on insects, small crustaceans, and algae, and males can show bright breeding colors and tubercles in spring.
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Identification points
- Silvery, laterally compressed body with a distinct dark stripe along the side
- Dorsal and caudal fins often yellowish to orange, especially in breeding season
- Males in spring may show small head tubercles and a slightly darker, more colorful head
Habitat
Clear to slightly turbid freshwater streams, small rivers, lake margins, and pools over gravel, sand, or mixed bottom; commonly near current seams, riffles, and submerged cover.
Bait notes
Small offerings work best: bits of worm, maggots, crickets, dough balls, or tiny pieces of bread. Micro jigs, small spinners, and light flies that imitate insects can also take them.
Behavior
A schooling, wary cyprinid that forages visually during daylight on drifting insects, small invertebrates, and plant matter; spawns in spring over gravel runs, with males developing breeding tubercles and stronger coloration.
Caution
none notable
Fishing notes
Use light line and small hooks or tiny flies; fish upstream drifts, eddies, and riffle margins where schools hold. They bite readily but can be cautious in clear water, so natural presentation and minimal weight help.