American Shad
American Shad are anadromous herring that spend most of their adult lives in the Atlantic Ocean before returning to freshwater rivers to spawn.
Rhode Island's shad populations are currently depleted, with spawning stock sizes remaining low since 2003 despite extensive habitat restoration work including dam removals and fish ladder improvements.
Scientific Name: Alosa sapidissima
- Deep-bodied with silvery flanks and can reach 4-6 pounds, with males typically smaller at 2-3 pounds.
Fishing in Rhode Island
Taunton River
Blackstone River
Narragansett Bay
Pawcatuck River
Lake Quinsigamond
Rhode Island Sound
Wachusett Reservoir
Charles River
Sakonnet River
Clear River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Present in two primary river systems in Rhode Island: the Pawcatuck River and the Pawtuxet River.
Key Locations
- Pawcatuck River and Pawtuxet River.
Specific Spots
- Areas with moderate current, deep pools, and rocky structure where these fish historically spawned.
American Shad FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for American Shad in Rhode Island?
Shad darts in chartreuse and hot pink, small flutter spoons, and 1/32-ounce jig heads with 1.5-2 inch curly tail grubs.
When is the best time to fish for American Shad in Rhode Island?
Peak spawning runs occurring when water temperatures reach approximately 55-68°F, typically from late March through June in Rhode Island waters.
How do you catch American Shad in Rhode Island?
Jigging motions every 3-5 seconds during retrieval, as shad are attracted to erratic movement. Precise lure placement critical as they school in long, single-file lines rather than tight groups. Immediate hook sets required as shad quickly release lures.
What do American Shad eat?
Filter-feeding fish that primarily consume plankton in marine waters, including calanoid copepods, mysid shrimp like Neomysis americana, and euphausids. During their spawning migration in freshwater, they typically cease active feeding, though they may strike lures out of aggression or curiosity.
Where do American Shad live in Rhode Island?
Present in two primary river systems in Rhode Island: the Pawcatuck River and the Pawtuxet River.
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