In the Western US, the Colombia and Sacramento rivers are the best places to fish shad. In the Eastern US, the best place to find shad is in the Connecticut river. However, shad can be found in rivers as far south as Florida.
Shad often congregate just below rocks and islands, and where water flows from fast to slow. [1] X Research source You can often find them behind cover that creates a break in the current.
Flies in white or yellow with red heads are popular. [2] X Research source Beads should be used in the colder water to entice and attract the deeper shad. Cast from upstream, allowing the beads to slowly float towards the shad making them appear alive. Just be sure to include enough weight that the beads will bounce off the bottom. Darts should be used when fishing in deeper cooler water. They will sink further and faster than a fly. Spinners should be used when fishing from shore, floating from upstream to downstream. Spoons work most efficiently at about mid-level water. Use these when fishing from a boat, casting out. and then reeling in at a medium speed.
Prepare the net to make it easier to throw and more effective by soaking it overnight in a washing machine or tub with hot water and fabric softener. Then lay it outside in the sun for a day. Once dry, the net will be more flexible and easier to use.
In the evenings, shad can be found in the warmer water towards the back of a cove or creek. During mornings or after dark, shad can be found around sources of light. In the fall, you will need to plan more around the cold weather patterns. The colder currents will push the shad out of the creeks and coves to the deeper water, making them more difficult to catch.
