Striped Shiner
Luxilus chrysocephalus
Striped Shiner is a common North American minnow of clear upland streams and small rivers. It often schools over gravel and sand, feeding on insects, algae, and small invertebrates; it is sometimes used as bait but is not a major game fish.
Identification points
- Bold black lateral stripe from snout through the tail base
- Silvery body with a dark-edged scale pattern and golden sheen on the head in breeding season
- Deeply forked tail and a stout minnow body with a slightly subterminal mouth
Habitat
Clear to slightly turbid medium-sized streams and small rivers with gravel, sand, riffles, pools, and moderate current; also found in some reservoirs and stream margins.
Bait notes
Small pieces of worm, maggots, crickets, and bread or dough baits can work; tiny hooks and light offerings are best. Small gold spinners or micro jigs may catch them when actively feeding.
Behavior
A schooling, midwater-to-bottom feeder that picks drifting insects, terrestrial insects, algae, and tiny crustaceans. Spawns in spring, often in shallow gravelly runs and riffles.
Caution
none notable
Fishing notes
Fish light tackle with a small float or allow baits to drift naturally in current. Target edges of riffles, tailouts, and pool heads; keep presentations small and subtle because they can be wary in clear water.