Golden Shiner
Notemigonus crysoleucas
Least Concern
Florida's premier live bait for trophy largemouth bass. Wild shiners are the secret weapon of Florida bass guides — a lively golden shiner under a float is the most effective big-bass technique in the state. Bait shops across Central Florida keep tanks full of these golden minnows.
Behavior
Schooling minnow found in vegetated lakes, ponds, and slow rivers throughout Florida. Wild shiners are caught commercially for the bait industry. When hooked and swimming under a float, their distress signals attract largemouth bass from long distances.
⚠️ Safety
No safety concerns. Handle gently to keep alive on the hook.
Fun Facts
- The #1 live bait for trophy Florida largemouth bass
- Florida's bait shiner industry is worth millions annually
- A lively shiner under a Cajun Thunder float is the classic Florida trophy bass rig
- Can reach 12 inches — large for a minnow species
Where to See
Lake Okeechobee
lakeFlorida's inland sea — the largest freshwater lake in the southeastern US. World-class largemouth ba...
St. Johns River
riverOne of the few north-flowing rivers in North America. 310 miles of diverse ecosystems from marshes t...
Lake Kissimmee
lakePart of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. Outstanding trophy bass fishing. Connected to the northern Eve...
Lake Tohopekaliga
lakeTrophy bass lake near Kissimmee. Regularly produces 10+ pound largemouth. Part of the Kissimmee Chai...
Lake George
lakeFlorida's second-largest lake, part of the St. Johns River system. Known for crappie (speckled perch...
Identify This Species
Use our Species Identifier to learn how to distinguish the Golden Shiner from similar species.
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