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American Shad

American Shad

American Shad are non-native anadromous fish introduced to Oregon waters in 1871, now established in several major river systems including the Columbia, Willamette, Umpqua, and Siuslaw rivers.

Physical Characteristics:
  • These large herring family members average 3-5 pounds with females growing larger than males, reaching up to 30 inches and 12 pounds.
  • They have silvery sides with greenish-blue backs, dark spots behind the gill cover, and distinctive saw-like serrated edges along their belly.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • These large herring family members are established in several major river systems including the Columbia, Willamette, Umpqua, and Siuslaw rivers.
  • The Columbia River hosts Oregon's largest shad runs with millions passing Bonneville Dam annually, while the Umpqua River maintains the state's most reliable coastal shad fishery.

Key Locations

  • On the Columbia River, fish below Bonneville Dam around Cascade Island, Hamilton Island boat ramp, Tanner Creek, and the 'Shad Rack' area near Beacon Rock.
  • The Willamette River below Willamette Falls near Oregon City and Clackamette Park offers excellent bank and boat access.
  • On the Umpqua River, try Sawyer Rapids, Elkton area, Yellow Creek, and River Forks County Park.

Specific Spots

  • These fish prefer swift current areas in 6-20 feet of water, often within 30 feet of shore, and tend to hold in deep pools during midday heat before moving upstream in evening hours.

American Shad FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

The most effective lures are small, bright-colored jigs (1/32 oz Strike King Mr. Crappie jig heads work well), shad darts in red/white, chartreuse, or hot pink, and small flutter spoons like Dick Nites.

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

The prime time for shad fishing in Oregon runs from May through mid-July, with peak action typically occurring in June around Father's Day.

How do you catch American Shad in Oregon?

Present lures by casting slightly downstream and across current, letting them sink near bottom while imparting jigging motion every 3-5 seconds. Thoroughly cover water with precise casts.

What do American Shad eat?

American Shad are primarily plankton feeders in the ocean, consuming copepods, mysids, euphausiids, and small crustaceans, though they feed very little when in freshwater for spawning. In Oregon rivers, juveniles feed on zooplankton including Daphnia and Bosmina.

Where do American Shad live in Oregon?

These large herring family members are established in several major river systems including the Columbia, Willamette, Umpqua, and Siuslaw rivers.

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