American Shad
American Shad are non-native anadromous fish in the herring family that have established significant populations in Washington waters since their introduction to the West Coast in 1871.
- These metallic-blue to greenish-backed fish with silvery bellies feature distinctive saw-like serrated edges along their belly midline and rows of dark spots that decrease in size toward the tail.
- In Washington waters, they typically measure 16-20 inches and weigh 2-4 pounds, with females growing larger than males.
Fishing in Washington
Yakima River
Cedar River
Puyallup River
Snoqualmie River
East Passage
Cowlitz River
Naches River
Commencement Bay
Cle Elum River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- They spend 3-5 years in the ocean before returning to freshwater to spawn in the Columbia River system.
Key Locations
- The Columbia River hosts Washington's largest shad runs.
- The most productive areas are below Bonneville Dam along the Washington shoreline, particularly at Cascade Island near the spillway, the north shore below Second Powerhouse Dam, transmission towers area, and around Hamilton Island boat ramp near North Bonneville.
- Additional productive spots include below John Day Dam between Maryhill Park and the dam, and the Camas Slough area near Washougal.
- Beyond the Columbia, shad have been caught in Lake Washington, the Cedar River near Renton, Sammamish River near Kenmore, Skagit River, Hood Canal, Grays Harbor, and the Chehalis River.
Specific Spots
- Shad prefer shallow water close to shore, typically within 25-30 feet of shoreline in depths of 6-20 feet, following fast-running currents and avoiding heavy-falling water at fish ladders.
American Shad FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for American Shad in Washington?
The most effective lures are shad darts in bright colors, particularly red and white patterns, chartreuse, and hot pink. Small crappie jigs (1/32 to 1/8 ounce), flutter spoons like Dick Nites, small wobbler spoons, and colored beads in red, metallic silver, or gold also work well.
What flies work for American Shad in Washington?
Clouser minnows, soft-bodied streamers, shad darts, and micro jigs with bead-chain eyes in bright colors.
When is the best time to fish for American Shad in Washington?
Target American Shad in the Columbia River from mid-May through early August, with peak fishing occurring in June. They spawn from May through July in the Columbia River system.
How do you catch American Shad in Washington?
Fish close to the bottom in fast current, casting upstream and allowing lures to drift downstream while imparting jigging motions every few seconds.
What do American Shad eat?
Shad are primarily plankton feeders, consuming euphausiids, copepods, mysid shrimp, amphipods, fish larvae, and tiny insects.
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