Shad Fly Fishing
LI, NY

Hickory shad is just fun! A species of herring they arrive in our waters between May and June. Shad is welcomed by anglers for its fighting ability and its acrobatic jumps when hooked. Shad is a relatively small fish and to get the most out of the experience, I strongly recommend using light tackle.

My shad setup is the following:
7wt fly rod
Intermediate line
9 ft leader
12 -15 lb fluorocarbon
Clousers and minnows in sizes 2, 1 and 1/0

I like fishing for shad in areas where moving water helps them ambush bait fish. On Long Island, both South and North shore beaches offer great shad fishing locations. Once you arrive, scout the water for signs of shad, often they can be seen jumping out of the water while feeding and when there is no top water action and we need to locate baitfish or a location that is likely to hold bait.

Sand eels and silver sides are shad favorites and if you find bait balls, work it good, chances are shad or even striped bass are near by.

When casting, I usually place my fly up current, striping enough line to keep it tight while allowing my fly to sink and a few moments later begin my retrieve. This is where shad usually strikes.

Once you've set the hook, keep an eye on your fish as he may put on quite an aerial show by jumping and flipping in an attempt to shake your fly.

This is perhaps one of the coolest things about shad fishing that will make your outing memorable.

Because striped bass inhabit the same waters as shad, I recommend using at least 12-15lb leader in case you happen to catch a bass. Depending on the current, using anything less than that may cost you your fish.

Tight lines!

Sergio

#flyfishing

Bass are nice! The same fly that triggers shad strikes will work great on stripers when they move in, which often is the case.
If you tie flies, these video will show how I tie small clousers and UV resin minnows, both of which are also great for bluefish, false albacore and smaller pelagics.

Small clousers and minnow flies wil ldo the trick!

Small but mighty shad!

The following video should give you a pretty good idea of how to target shad with a fly rod. Unfortunately we had pretty bad weather conditions and couldn't get a break from the clouds and rain, spring weather can be unpredictable so it's best to always pack warm raingear in case it pours on you. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to send me a note.