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American Shad

American Shad

American Shad are the largest members of the herring family and are native anadromous fish found in New Jersey waters. They spend most of their adult lives in the Atlantic Ocean but migrate up freshwater rivers to spawn in spring.

Scientific Name: Alosa sapidissima

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silver-scaled fish that typically weigh 3-8 pounds with males averaging 2-3 pounds and females running 4-6 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Native anadromous fish found in New Jersey waters.
  • They spend most of their adult lives in the Atlantic Ocean but migrate up freshwater rivers to spawn.

Key Locations

  • The Delaware River is New Jersey's premier shad fishery, hosting one of the best American Shad runs in the Northeast with fish traveling from Trenton north to the Delaware Water Gap and beyond.
  • The Delaware River from Lambertville to the Delaware Water Gap offers the state's best shad fishing opportunities.

Specific Spots

  • Target deep pools, current seams, and areas just below rapids or dams where fish rest during their upstream migration.

American Shad FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Shad dart - conical lead heads with feather or hair tails in chartreuse, pink, hot pink, or red/white combinations (look for darts with completely flat heads for maximum action in current). Flutter spoons like Dick Nites, especially in early spring.

What flies work for American Shad in New Jersey?

Bright streamers, Clouser minnows, or micro jigs with flashy tails in pink, orange, or chartreuse.

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

Prime American Shad fishing season runs from March through June, with peak action from April through May when water temperatures reach the optimal 50-60°F range. During spawning season (mid-April to late June), anglers should avoid targeting these fish to protect the reproductive cycle.

How do you catch American Shad in New Jersey?

Cast down and across current, allowing lures to sink near bottom and swing through the drift while imparting jigging action every 3-5 seconds.

What do American Shad eat?

In the marine environment, shad are primarily plankton feeders that also consume small shrimp, fish e.g.gs, and occasionally small fish. During their spawning migration in freshwater, they largely cease feeding.

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New Jersey licenses and regulations

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