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Wellfleet's Herring River (like many others across Cape Cod) was named after river herring, iconic fish that were once abundant all along the Atlantic coast.
The term river herring refers to two related species of fish: alewives and blueback herring. Unlike Atlantic herring, which are strictly marine fish, river
herring migrate into freshwater ponds and lakes to spawn. These annual migrations are called “runs,” and they are truly a spring spectacle.
The fish expend a tremendous amount of energy - and do not even eat! - as they travel upstream against strong currents for about 5 miles to reach their final destinations: Herring, Higgins, Williams, and Gull Ponds. After spawning, they return to the ocean.
The young of the year spend their first spring, summer and early fall in the ponds. They will emigrate to the ocean from their freshwater homes in the fall when the water becomes cold and their food, zooplankton, is scarce. After they mature at 3-4 years, they will spawn every year throughout their lifetime, typically 8 years. They exhibit “natal homing,” migrating to the same rivers, lakes, and ponds every year.
River herring face many obstacles. Overfishing, habitat degradation, the construction of impediments to migration such as dams and dikes, and bycatch in other fisheries have all contributed to their decline. Today, it is illegal to catch river herring in Massachusetts.
The restoration of Wellfleet's Herring River, the removal of the Chequessett Neck Dike, and overall improvements to the water quality will result in an improved herring run - a marvel we can all enjoy.
text by Barbara Brennessel, Ph.D.
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