Volume Fishing
When the run is in, hookups come in steady succession. This is the trip for anyone who wants their rod bent rather than a long day of waiting for one bite.
The Trip
GuidedAmerican Shad
Shad are the most underrated fishery in Oregon. For a few weeks in late spring, millions of them push up the Columbia, and when you find the school the bite simply does not stop. It is the one trip where the question is not whether you will hook up, but how long your arms will hold out.
Because they hit hard on light gear, shad are the trip we point families and first-timers toward. There is no long wait between fish, no complicated technique to learn, and a four pound shad on a light rod pulls hard enough to make a ten year old shout.
Why This Trip
What Makes It Worth The Drive
Nothing To Learn
The technique takes about five minutes to pick up. Ryan sets the gear, shows you the retrieve, and you are fishing. No experience assumed.
Warm Weather
A late spring fishery, so you get the mild end of the Oregon calendar. No pre-dawn cold, no winter rain gear, just a comfortable day on the water.
Great With Kids
Short waits, light rods and constant action are exactly what holds the attention of a kid. Tell us their ages when you book and we will pitch the day to suit.
How The Day Runs
Ramp To Cooler
Meet at the ramp
We confirm the launch point a day or two ahead, based on where the run is stacking up. Gear is already aboard and rigged.
Find the school
Shad move in tight columns. Ryan works the boat until the sounder lights up, then holds you on the fish for as long as they keep biting.
Fish, then head in
You fish until the bite tapers or the day runs out. Anything you keep gets cleaned and bagged before you leave the ramp.
What's Included
Gear Handled,catch handled
Every trip is fully outfitted. Bring a valid fishing license, dress for the weather, and the rest is covered.
- All rods, reels, tackle and bait
- Safety gear and licensed, insured captain
- Cleaning, filleting and bagging of your catch
- Coaching for every experience level
- Flexible launch points across Oregon waters
What To Bring
- Sunscreen and a hat, late spring sun on the water is stronger than it feels
- Polarized sunglasses
- A cooler if you plan to take fish home
Questions
American Shad FAQ
Is a shad trip good for young kids?
It is the trip we recommend most for kids and first-time anglers. The action is close to constant, the gear is light enough for small hands, and nobody has to sit still waiting for a bite. Let us know ages ahead of time so we can tailor the day.
When exactly is the shad run?
The window runs roughly mid May to mid June. The peak shifts a little year to year with water temperature and flow, so call ahead and we will tell you where the run is at.
Do shad make good eating?
They are bony but excellent smoked, and the roe is prized. Plenty of guests fish them purely for the action and release them. Either way, anything you keep is cleaned and bagged for you.
What does a shad trip cost?
Shad trips are priced per group rather than off the standard rate card, so give us a call and we will quote your party. A deposit reserves the date.
