Shad
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Shad, a migratory fish species, can be found in various bodies of water throughout the South/Gulf region. They are commonly found in rivers, streams, and larger reservoirs that provide suitable habitat for their spawning and feeding activities.
Alabama: Alabama River, Coosa River, Tombigbee River, Mobile Bay, Tennessee River.
Arkansas: Arkansas River, White River, Ouachita River, Mississippi River, Lake Dardanelle.
Georgia: Savannah River, Chattahoochee River, Altamaha River, Oconee River, Ocmulgee River.
Louisiana: Mississippi River, Red River, Atchafalaya River, Calcasieu River, Sabine River.
Mississippi: Mississippi River, Pearl River, Pascagoula River, Tombigbee River, Yazoo River.
Oklahoma: Arkansas River, Red River, Canadian River, Illinois River, Grand Lake O' the Cherokees.
Tennessee: Tennessee River, Cumberland River, Mississippi River, Clinch River, Duck River.
Texas: Trinity River, Brazos River, Sabine River, San Jacinto River, Colorado River.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Shad are highly migratory fish and can be found in a variety of habitats within their range. They prefer open water environments with moderate to fast currents. Shad are often found near river channels, eddies, and areas with good water flow.
Look for shad near submerged structures such as bridge pilings, rocky points, and sandbars. They are known to gather in large schools near the surface, particularly during their spawning runs. Shad are also attracted to areas with abundant plankton and other small organisms, which serve as their primary food source.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring, shad migrate upstream in large numbers for spawning. Look for them in rivers and tributaries, particularly in areas with moderate currents and suitable spawning grounds. Shad tend to move in schools and can be targeted using cast nets or specialized shad darts.
SUMMER
In the summer, shad disperse throughout their range and can be found in various parts of rivers and reservoirs. Look for them in deeper sections near river channels, bends, and submerged structures. Trolling or drift fishing with small lures or jigs can be effective during this season.
FALL
As fall arrives, shad begin to move back downstream, following the changing water conditions. Look for them near the mouths of rivers, confluences, or areas with good water flow. Shad may also be more active near the surface during this time, making them accessible to fly fishing or surface lures.
WINTER
During the winter months, shad tend to gather in deeper sections of rivers and reservoirs, seeking warmer water. Look for them near areas with thermal discharges or where warmer tributaries enter the main body of water. Vertical jigging or slow presentations with small lures can be effective during the colder months.
Bait
Shad primarily feed on small organisms, including plankton, insects, and tiny fish. When targeting shad, popular bait options include small jigs, darts, or flies that mimic their natural prey. Cast nets can also be used to catch shad in large numbers. Additionally, shad can be attracted to chumming techniques involving finely ground fish meal or bread crumbs.