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American Shad Fishing

The best out of 68 American Shad Fishing deals - enter destination and dates to check availability

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Featured American Shad fishing charters

  • 24 ft
    •
    up to 4

    Weldon Striper Fishing

    4.8
    /5
    (20 reviews)
    Weldon, North Carolina
    Shad fishing
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +1
    5 hour light tackle trip for american and hickory shad at one of the best shad migrations on the nc coast with lots of action most days casting spinning rods or an excellent place to fly fish for this species!
    Price for up to 4 people
    US $450
  • Angler's Choice
    20 ft
    •
    up to 5

    Sicily Fishing Charter

    4.9
    /5
    (115 reviews)
    Castellammare Del Golfo, Italy
    Afternoon trip
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +6
    Relaxation and Fun for the Whole Family. This trip is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sea without waking up early in the morning! An experience designed for fishing in total relaxation, until sunset, surrounded by the beautiful setting of Castellammare del Golfo. Ideal for families with children, beginners, and those looking for a bit of action right from the start. We use light and specific equipment, suitable for all ages, to ensure a fun and memorable experience for everyone.
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 1 person
    US $168
  • Angler's Choice
    28 ft
    •
    up to 6

    Chasin' Tides Charters

    4.8
    /5
    (576 reviews)
    Ocean City, Maryland
    3 Hour Trip – Bay Fishing (PM)
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    This is an afternoon trip that can begin at 12:30, 2:30, or 5:00 PM. You will be casting lures for Striped Bass, Shad, and Bluefish.
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 6 people
    US $450
  • Angler's Choice
    24 ft
    •
    up to 6

    Beast Coast Fishing Charters

    5.0
    /5
    (149 reviews)
     
    Federally permitted
    Port Orange, Florida
    Wildlife Tour and Bait – Catching - 1:00 PM
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +2
    Join us for a one-of-a-kind trip through the beautiful waters of Ponce Inlet. This experience combines the excitement of a wildlife tour with hands-on learning. Cruise through scenic waterways while spotting dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and coastal birds. Along the way, you'll also get to watch demonstrations on catching live bait and even try your hand at catching baitfish yourself. It's an interactive, family-friendly adventure that blends sightseeing, education, and fun on the water.
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 2 people
    US $300
  • Angler's Choice
    21 ft
    •
    up to 4

    Tidal Pursuits Fishing LLC

    5.0
    /5
    (83 reviews)
    Nags Head, North Carolina
    Roanoke River Striper Run- Half Day - 12:00 PM
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    The most popular option for the Roanoke River Striper run. Plenty of time to catch lots of migratory fish. These trips are 100% catch-and-release.
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 4 people
    US $500
  • 22 ft
    •
    up to 6

    Josh Sutch Guide Service LLC

    5.0
    /5
    (10 reviews)
    Winchester Bay, Oregon
    8 Hour Trip – Fall Chinook
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +4
    Enjoy a day in a beautiful willie drift boat chasing big fall Chinook on some of the most beautiful coastal rivers. Elk+Sixes River
    Instant Confirmation
    Per person
    US $250
  • Angler's Choice
    20 ft
    •
    up to 4

    Coleman’s Guide Service

    4.9
    /5
    (59 reviews)
    Freeport, Maine
    2 Hr Sunset/Nature Cruise
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +5
    Freeport has a fish with your name on it, so let Coleman's Guide Service help you catch it! With Captain Coleman at the helm, you're in knowledgeable and experienced hands. Striped Bass, Atlantic Mackerel, Blue Shark, Mako Shark, Porbeagle Shar
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 4 people
    US $450
  • 26 ft
    •
    up to 6

    Josh Sutch Guide Service LLC

    5.0
    /5
    (47 reviews)
    Winchester Bay, Oregon
    Rockfish crab combo
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +6
    If fishing in Winchester Bay is on your bucket list, look no further than Josh Sutch Guide Service. These waters are known for Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Shad, Lingcod, Halibut, Smallmouth Bass, Sturgeon, Coho Salmon, Black Seabass, Albacore Tuna, Striped Ba
    Instant Confirmation
    Per person
    US $300
  • 16 ft
    •
    up to 6

    Shoreline Fishing – Overberg

    4.9
    /5
    (10 reviews)
    Hermanus, South Africa
    Full Day Lagoon Trip
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Spend a full day fishing aboard Shoreline Fishing’s cabin boat on one of our local lagoons. Our trips usually start with collecting fresh bait together before heading out to find a spot to drop anchor. With a full day to fish, there’s time to explore different areas and make the most of day. All rods, reels, tackle and fresh bait are provided, with a maximum of two guests aboard. Bait up and cast for yourself or leave it to Matt. Start time shown is a guide and will be confirmed before the trip.
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 1 person
    US $145
  • 28 ft
    •
    up to 4

    Rockfish Capital Of The World

    5.0
    /5
    (2 reviews)
    Weldon, North Carolina
    2 Hour Trip – Rockfishing - 4:00 PM
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Fish 3
    Fish 4
    +5
    Great trip for people with kids. Good way to get out on the water and enjoy the views of Weldon while catching fish.
    Instant Confirmation
    Price for up to 3 people
    US $300

Popular American Shad fishing destinations

What anglers say about American Shad fishing

  • 5.0
    /5
    (8 Hour Trip)

    Great Trip

    The captain is a great guy, who got my son, granddaughter, and myself into the action. We started out by catching salmon in the morning, and then in another location shad. He also has some left handed reels for left handed guys like me.
    Randy B.
    Randy B.
    Reviewed on Jun 25, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (4 to 5 Hour Trip – Harbour)

    Harbour trip with wife

    Amazing harbour trip with wife, with your assistance my wife a first-time fisherman caught more fish than myself. Everything was provided from rods to bait. You will definitely see me again.
    Hendrik G.
    Hendrik G.
    Reviewed on Apr 20, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (Nearshore charter)

    Great tour with exrta sightings

    Donavan and Micky made the tour very special to us. Not even that they brought us several fish to the hook. Even a bigger fight came up. Unfortunatly we lost the big fish. But Donavan managed to show us additional marine wildlife and explained a lot about the species, the landscape and South Africa in general.
    Erik M.
    Erik M.
    Reviewed on Mar 20, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (Backline - 12:00 PM)

    Great fishing trip!

    Went with the whole family. Skipper amd his team were great. Would definitely recommend.
    Rocco G.
    Rocco G.
    Reviewed on Dec 17, 2025
  • 5.0
    /5
    (4 Hour Trip – Bowfishing)

    Kids night out

    A fun filled night out with captain John Pate. He is very good with kids and helps them in any way he can for a successful trip.
    Don R.
    Don R.
    Reviewed on Mar 3, 2026
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About American Shad fishing

Size
2 to 5lbs
Food Value
Good
Game Quality
Average

Shad fishing is all about fast action and steady spring runs. Shad are hard-hitting river fish known for quick bursts, flashy strikes, and fun headshakes. Many anglers target them for the lively bite, easy access from shore or boat, and the chance to catch numbers.

You can catch Shad with light spinning or fly fishing tackle. Small jigs called Shad darts, tiny spoons, and soft plastics work well. Cast across the current, let the lure swing, and retrieve slowly near the bottom. On the fly, use small bright flies and a sinking tip to reach the strike zone.

Expect a simple, active trip with lots of casting and hookups when the run is on. This is a great option for beginners, families, and anyone who enjoys steady action on light gear. Bring a light to medium-light rod, small lures or flies, polarized sunglasses, and a landing net. Dress for changing weather, and consider waders or a life jacket when fishing strong currents. Handle fish gently and release them quickly if you are not keeping any.

Before you go, check local rules for licenses, permits, seasons, and harvest limits. Regulations can change by river and region, and some areas have gear or release rules during spawning runs. Always follow posted guidance and ask your captain or local authorities if you are unsure.

Habitats

Lake
River

Techniques

Fly Fishing
Light Tackle

Shad fishing is all about fast action and steady spring runs. Shad are hard-hitting river fish known for quick bursts, flashy strikes, and fun headshakes. Many anglers target them for the lively bite, easy access from shore or boat, and the chance to catch numbers.

You can catch Shad with light spinning or fly fishing tackle. Small jigs called Shad darts, tiny spoons, and soft plastics work well. Cast across the current, let the lure swing, and retrieve slowly near the bottom. On the fly, use small bright flies and a sinking tip to reach the strike zone.

Expect a simple, active trip with lots of casting and hookups when the run is on. This is a great option for beginners, families, and anyone who enjoys steady action on light gear. Bring a light to medium-light rod, small lures or flies, polarized sunglasses, and a landing net. Dress for changing weather, and consider waders or a life jacket when fishing strong currents. Handle fish gently and release them quickly if you are not keeping any.

Before you go, check local rules for licenses, permits, seasons, and harvest limits. Regulations can change by river and region, and some areas have gear or release rules during spawning runs. Always follow posted guidance and ask your captain or local authorities if you are unsure.