Fun Facts for American Shad

Hello Fly Anglers,

We've been out on the water most every day chasing shad and the rod bending action has been epic. Here's some fun facts you probably didn't know about American Shad.

Originally from the East Coast

American shad were transported across the United States and introduced to the Sacramento River in the 1870s via the newly completed transcontinental railroad. Specifically, juvenile shad were captured from the Hudson River (New York), placed in milk cans filled with water, and then carried on special railroad cars to the Sacramento River in California.

Where is the World's Largest Run of American Shad?

Right in your back yard! The Willamette and Columbia Rivers host the largest run of American Shad in the world, with runs ranging from 2 to 5+ million fish each year! They pour in from the ocean every June—and when they do, the action can be nonstop.

Historical Significance

George Washington's men were starving at the Battle of Valley Forge when the spring Shad run came in and saved them. The protein from the American Shad saved the day and help win the war!

Smart Guys like Shad

Both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson had commercial shad fishing operations. Harvesting shad with nets for commercial use.

How big do American Shad get?

The world record is whopping 11 pounds 4 ounces caught in the Conneticut River in 1986. The Oregon state record shad is listed at a 6 pounds 6 ounces.

Do Shad Die After Spawning?

Shad are like steelhead in several ways, they are born in freshwater, go to the ocean for a number of years, then return to spawn. Also like steelhead they can spawn and then return to the ocean; often making multiple spawning runs.

If you would like to see this historic fish up close we still have a few open spots! Come join us for the shad fishing fun...

Spots are limited and June fills fast!

Email me today to reserve your seat: rob@watertimeoutfitters.com

Learn more or book online: Guided Shad Trips

Tight lines and we hope to see you on the water,

Rob Crandall & the WTO team

www.watertimeoutfitters.com

rob@watertimeoutfitters.com