Shad are a favorite forage and one of the best baits for all types of predatory fish.
Although the best way to catch them is with a cast net, the use of these nest is illegal in many U.S. States.
And buying shad from a bait shop is either not very practical or not very cost effective. So it is very helpful to be able to catch shad without a casting net?
Yes, although it is quite difficult, you can catch shad on a hook. Shad eat just like any other fish.
So as long as you can use the right bait, use small enough hooks, and locate shad, than you can catch them with a rod and reel and not need a cast net.
Shad feed on very small bugs, plankton, and other tiny forage. You are going to to need a very, very small hook and some sort of worm, bug, or bread as bait.
Then, find the schooling shad in your pond, lake, or river. This can actually be a bit difficult, but we will discuss that part later in the article.
As you are probably thinking, it is impossible to cast such as small hook and bait on traditional gear setups.
The two best setups are a bobber rig and a fly fishing approach. A bobber adds the extra weight that you need to cast the bait.
But, the splash of the float can sometimes spook the shad. So the best way to cast the small hook is with a fly rod.
The heavy fly fishing line can carry your tiny hook straight to the shad.
The Sabiki Rig is a baitfish rig used in both fresh and saltwater to catch bait.
The Sabiki Rig works best for bigger shad species such as American shad and Threadfin Shad.
Small panfish flies can be great shad lures. They are tiny cast totally fine on fly fishing gear.
Since they are actual lures, they are also very durable and can catch you hundreds of shad.
This is probably the hardest part when catching shad without a cast net.
Unlike locating bass, shad move about quite randomly. You can’t just cast near some cover and hope to catch something.
It is more of a waiting game than anything else. The shad will present themselves to you.
When they are feeding on the surface, they are very easy to spot.
Hundreds or thousands of shad will circling on the surface, and you can catch them quite easily.
Shad can be much easier to find during certain times of the year.
It can be helpful to have a small bass boat to cover more water and get closer to the shad.
The two best times of year to find and catch shad are the early spring and the fall.
During the early spring, shad don’t eat quite as much, but huge schools of shad will school up in very shallow water.
They will come into shallow creek channels, flats, and rocky banks in order to soak up the spring sunshine.
The fall is your best bet. Like other fish, shad feed up a lot during the fall.
During a fall morning or evening, it is very easy to find thousands of shad feeding on the surface. And they are looking to eat, so they are easy to catch.
Q1: What is shad, and why would I want to catch it?
A1: Shad is a type of fish commonly found in freshwater rivers and estuaries. Anglers often target shad to use as bait since predatory fish love them so much.
Q2: Why would I need alternative methods to catch shad without a cast net?
A2: Some fishing locations may have restrictions on the use of cast nets, or you may not have access to one. Exploring alternative methods allows you to adapt to different fishing conditions.
Q3: What are some alternative methods for catching shad?
A3: Alternative methods include using a seine net, throw net, dip net, or even hook and line. Each method has its own set of advantages and considerations.
Q4: What is the process for using a dip net to catch shad?
A4: A dip net is a handheld net with a long handle. You can dip it into the water to scoop up shad. This method is effective for catching individual fish.
Q5: Is hook and line fishing a viable option for shad?
A5: Yes, using small hooks with bait like worms or small lures can be effective in catching shad. This method provides a more leisurely and controlled approach.
Q6: Are there any specific regulations I need to be aware of when catching shad?
A6: Check local fishing regulations regarding seasons, size limits, and specific rules for catching shad. Adhering to these regulations helps preserve the fish population and ensures sustainable fishing practices.
Q7: What are some tips for beginners trying to catch shad?
A7: Patience is key. Experiment with different methods, observe local fishing practices, and pay attention to the behavior of shad in the specific water body you’re fishing in.
Q8: Can I release shad back into the water if I don’t want to keep them?
A8: Yes, if allowed by local regulations, catch-and-release is a responsible practice. Handle the fish gently and release them back into the water to contribute to conservation efforts.
Shad are without a doubt the best live and cut bait to use for catfish, pike, bass, and many other species.
But with laws preventing you to catch them with a cast net, many anglers miss out. But you can catch them on a hook.
Although it is difficult, in can be done. Give it a try this year to elevate you fishing results.
