The gaspareau, also known as 'summer alewife', is a small migratory fish found in the waters of Quebec. Although not highly sought after by sport fishermen due to its modest size and limited fighting ability, it plays an important ecological role as prey for many aquatic predators. It is primarily found in the rivers and estuaries of eastern Quebec, where it migrates to spawn. Its popularity mainly lies in its use as bait for fishing larger species such as walleye and pike.

The gaspareau has a fusiform, elongated, and laterally compressed body, typical of fish in the Clupeidae family. Its silvery color allows it to blend into clear waters and reflect light, making it difficult to spot. A dark longitudinal stripe may sometimes be observed along its sides. Its mouth is terminal, slightly oblique, and its eyes are relatively large. The fins are generally clear, with a dorsal fin located in the middle of the back and a forked tail. The scales are large and easily detach. Young gaspareaus resemble adults but are smaller and less silvery. During the spawning period, males may display slightly brighter colors than females.

In Quebec, the gaspareau is primarily found in the rivers and estuaries of the Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie, and Côte-Nord regions. It is also found in some tributaries of the St. Lawrence River. It is less common in inland waters, preferring coastal waters where it can migrate easily. Abundant in areas conducive to spawning, it is often observed in large groups during its seasonal migrations.

The gaspareau prefers fresh and brackish waters, often near estuaries and river mouths. It frequents shallow waters, generally between 1 and 5 meters deep. Areas with moderate currents and water temperatures between 10 and 20 °C are ideal. You will often find it near structures such as vegetation beds, submerged rocks, and shorelines where it can hide from predators.

The gaspareau migrates to rivers to spawn in the spring, often as soon as the water temperature reaches about 10 °C. The female can lay several thousand eggs, which adhere to the substrate until hatching. The larvae emerge after about a week and begin their rapid growth. Young gaspareaus spend the summer in surface waters before migrating to the ocean in the fall. They reach sexual maturity around 3 to 4 years of age and can live up to 7 years. Spring → Spawning → Summer → Growth → Fall → Migration → Winter → Rest.

The gaspareau is a social fish, often moving in large schools to protect itself from predators. Non-territorial, it readily shares its habitat with other fish species. Sensitive to changes in light, it is more active on cloudy days and at dusk. Gaspareaus react little to noise but can be influenced by changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure.

The diet of the gaspareau varies according to its age and the season. Fry primarily feed on zooplankton, while adults consume aquatic invertebrates, insect larvae, and occasionally small fish. In summer, their diet is more diverse due to the abundance of food, whereas in winter, they make do with what is available in the water.

In spring, gaspareaus ascend rivers to spawn, making it an ideal time to observe them in large numbers. In summer, they disperse in coastal waters, actively feeding. Fall marks the beginning of their migration to the ocean, making them harder to catch. In winter, the gaspareau is less active, staying in deeper waters and reducing its feeding activities. The best times to observe them are early in the morning and late in the afternoon, especially on cloudy days.

To fish for gaspareau, prefer silver or translucent lures that mimic their own color. In clear water, use lures with subtle and natural shades. On cloudy days or in murky water, lures with metallic reflections can help attract their attention. Small lures are generally more effective, as they match the size of the gaspareau's natural prey.

To catch gaspareau, a light rod of 1.8 to 2.1 meters is ideal, with a fast action to feel the delicate bites. A spinning reel sized 1000 to 2000 with a line of 4 to 6 lb is sufficient. Use hooks size 6 to 10, and a fluorocarbon leader can be useful for a discreet presentation, especially in clear water.

The gaspareau should be handled carefully due to its fragile scales. Use wet hands to avoid removing the protective mucus layer. If you wish to release it back into the water, do so quickly to minimize stress. For a photo, support the fish gently and avoid holding it out of the water for too long.

In Quebec, the main predators of the gaspareau include yellow walleye, pike, and muskellunge. Aquatic birds such as cormorants and gulls may also feed on it, especially during migration.

The gaspareau is not currently considered an endangered species in Quebec. However, its population can be affected by pollution and dams that hinder its migration. There are no specific regulations for its recreational fishing, but it is important to respect general fishing rules and prioritize catch and release whenever possible.