Gear & Tackle

Species / American Shad / New York

Herring

American Shad Fishing in New York

An Atlantic anadromous herring that runs East Coast rivers in spring. Shad are called the poor man's tarpon for their leaps.

Best Months: Mar to May

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Plan by Month

Best Flies, Lures & Bait for American Shad

Month

Nothing specific listed for October. Try a neighboring month.

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    Rod & Reel

    American Shad Setup

    American Shad

    Fly 9 ft 6 wt rod, sink-tip or full-sink line, small bright shad flies.

    Spin / Cast 6.5 ft light spinning rod, 2500 reel, 6 lb line, shad darts or small spoons.

    New York

    Where to Catch American Shad

    Rivers & Streams · New York

    Delaware River (Upper)

    Wild rainbows on the East and West Branches; demanding dry fly fishing on the Catskills border.

    Wild Rainbow Trout · Brown Trout · Shad

    New York

    Shops to Stock Up

    American Shad Fishing by State

    California (1)New York (1)