A fish model to replace the use of live fish in hydroelectric studies is provided. The fish model is cast from ballistic gel to include the density, dimensions, and weight distribution of a selected species of living fish. The fish model is formed by additively manufacturing a mold based on a three-dimensional scan of an actual fish. The mold is then used to mass produce fish models for force measurement testing at various blade speeds, thickness, and impact angles. Each fish model includes a surrogate skin and an internal sensor for strike force measurements. Optional additional sensors include strain gauges, temperature probes, pressure probes, and load sensors, for example.