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American Shad

American Shad

American Shad are the largest North American members of the herring family, known as the 'poor man's tarpon' for their powerful fighting ability and aerial acrobatics.

These anadromous fish spend most of their lives in the Atlantic Ocean before returning to Delaware's rivers to spawn.

Scientific Name: Alosa sapidissima

Also known as poor man's tarpon

Physical Characteristics:
  • American Shad commonly reach 4-8 pounds with adults averaging 15-20 inches in length.
  • In Delaware waters, they're bluish-green along the top with silvery sides and a distinctive dark spot at the top of the gill flap, often followed by smaller spots along the upper side.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • These anadromous fish spend most of their lives in the Atlantic Ocean before returning to Delaware's rivers to spawn.
  • They're found throughout Delaware's range including the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, Delaware River and tributaries, Nanticoke River and tributaries, and inland bays.

Key Locations

  • They're found throughout Delaware's range including the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, Delaware River and tributaries, Nanticoke River and tributaries, and inland bays.
  • Key locations include stretches below Stockton Bridge on the Upper Delaware River.
  • The Delaware River system is particularly important as it's the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi, providing excellent spawning habitat.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper runs near gravel bars, gentle eddies behind large boulders, and back-currents along river edges.
  • Target areas with riffled water leading into pools.
  • Position yourself near current seams where fast water meets slower flows, as shad use these as migratory highways.

American Shad FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Essential lures include small, brightly colored jigs and shad darts in chartreuse, pink, orange, and white - the most effective colors in springtime flows. Small jigs and shad darts are favorites among Delaware shad fishermen.

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

Prime American Shad fishing in Delaware occurs during spring migration from mid-April through late May when water temperatures reach the mid-60s to 70s Fahrenheit. Adult shad return after 3-5 years at sea, typically arriving when water temperatures reach the mid-60s to 70s Fahrenheit.

How do you catch American Shad in Delaware?

Cast slightly upstream and across current, letting lures drift just above bottom where shad school. Use a slow, steady retrieve with occasional twitches to create erratic motion that triggers strikes. Position yourself near current seams where fast water meets slower flows, as shad use these as migratory highways.

What do American Shad eat?

American Shad are primarily plankton feeders in the ocean, but will eat small shrimp and fish e.g.gs. Young shad (fry) grow rapidly after spring hatching, feeding on freshwater plankton and aquatic insects before migrating to the ocean in late summer/early fall.

Where do American Shad live in Delaware?

These anadromous fish spend most of their lives in the Atlantic Ocean before returning to Delaware's rivers to spawn. They're found throughout Delaware's range including the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, Delaware River and tributaries, Nanticoke River and tributaries, and inland bays.

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