Shad

[fishaholictaz]

What kind of fishing line is good at the dam? I was thinking of 6 pound line so I can easliy break the line when I get snagged. Most of the shad are 3-5 pounds. I was also going to switch to pencil lead instead of bank sinkers. I only caught one last year from a total of 2 trips. I am hoping for more sucess this year.

I use 10 lb test or 12lb test.

Nicking all those rocks will do a number on your 6 lb test.

Those fish may not be big but they can fight! I agree with the 10 -12 lb. line.

[returnofthefish]

Thanks for the advise guys. I cant wait to slay the shad

[Rich McVey]

Get you Shad darts now cuz most everywhere will sell out soon like in previous years.

Ok, Im totally new to this SHAD thing.

Rivers?
Lakes?

Shad dart??

Can anyone give me a 60 second how to?

Thanks!

[returnofthefish]

Go to the Columbia River right below the Bonneville Dam. Cast at a 45 degree angle upstream with shad darts, crappie jigs, dick nites or other lures. Good lure weight is 1/16 oz. Sinker weight should be adjusted to how fast the current is moving. Shad bites feels like quick tap taps. 10-12 main line and leader line can be your choice. No possesion limits and no size limits. Keep an eye on your stringer, or giant sturgeon will suck your shad right off. Have fun. Use trout gear for a challenge.

[Rich McVey]

Sounds interesting for sure. I have not done much river fishing up to this point and non from a boat. Looks like this is something to add to the list of places to go and fish to catch.

Thanks returnofthefish

[returnofthefish]

The dam fish counts indicates that the shad are heading upriver. Anybody plan to go yet? I read somewhere that its better to wait till its over 20 - 30 thousand shad passing through the dam.

[jens]

The dam fish counts indicates that the shad are heading upriver. Anybody plan to go yet? I read somewhere that its better to wait till its over 20 - 30 thousand shad passing through the dam.

If memory serves me right, the first time I witnessed the Shad fishery 4 years ago was right around Memorial Weekend. I was over on the Oregon side at the Cascade Locks. Everyone was catching them. Not too many friendly people, but hopefully I'll make it there.