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American Shad

American Shad

American Shad (Alosa sapidissima) is Connecticut's official state fish and the largest member of the herring family found in state waters, commonly reaching 15-24 inches with the Connecticut record being 9. 3 pounds and 25. 8 inches.

These anadromous fish spend most of their adult lives in the Atlantic Ocean but return to freshwater rivers to spawn each spring.

Scientific Name: Alosa sapidissima

Physical Characteristics:
  • Shad are distinguished by their silvery sides, bluish-green backs, distinctive cheek patch that's deeper than wide, and a dark spot behind the gill cover sometimes followed by smaller spots.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • These anadromous fish spend most of their adult lives in the Atlantic Ocean but return to freshwater rivers to spawn each spring.
  • In the Connecticut River, shad have been documented migrating as far north as Bellows Falls, Vermont (272 miles from Long Island Sound), navigating dams via fishways.

Key Locations

  • In Connecticut, shad runs occur in all major rivers including the Connecticut, Housatonic, Pawcatuck, and Thames, with the Connecticut River supporting the largest and most significant run - currently one of the largest on the East Coast.
  • Minor runs also occur in the Quinnipiac, Hammonasset, and East rivers.
  • The Connecticut River offers the best opportunities.
  • In the Connecticut River, productive areas include Hartford north to the Massachusetts state line, though access has changed over time.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deep, slow pools where shad rest during midday heat, long uniform flats with moderate current, tributary mouths, current seams, and areas just downstream of dams or rapids.

American Shad FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for American Shad in Connecticut?

For lures, small jigs are most effective - particularly 1/32 ounce Strike King Mr. Crappie jig heads in white, chartreuse, and pink with 1.5-2 inch curly tail grubs. Classic shad darts in red/white, yellow, chartreuse, and hot pink also work well, as do small flutter spoons like Dick Nites.

What flies work for American Shad in Connecticut?

Effective fly patterns include flashy clouser minnows, soft-bodied streamers, darts, and 1/64 ounce micro jigs with short feathering in bright colors like pink, orange, chartreuse, or combinations with white.

When is the best time to fish for American Shad in Connecticut?

The prime season for American Shad fishing in Connecticut runs from April through June. Spawning occurs from May through June in Connecticut waters, with peak activity between sundown and midnight when water temperatures reach 55-68°F (optimal around 65°F).

How do you catch American Shad in Connecticut?

Position yourself upstream of target areas and cast down and across current, letting your offering sink near bottom and swing in a downstream arc. Impart jigging motion by raising the rod tip 12 inches every 3-5 seconds - this erratic action triggers strikes.

What do American Shad eat?

While at sea, shad feed primarily on zooplankton including copepods, mysid shrimp, and small fish through filter feeding.

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