How To Catch Shad Without A Cast Net

Written by: Pete Danylewycz
Last Updated:
SHARE: 

Small shad are fantastic live bait for a variety of species, and as long as you keep them well-oxygenated, they’re hardy and lively. 

Most anglers use a cast net to gather shad for bait, but we often get asked about alternatives.

Can you catch shad without a cast net?

how to catch shad without a cast net

The basic answer is no - if we’re talking about bait shad.

I’ve caught shad once or twice on small in-line spinners, but they were a bit larger than bait shad, and I’ll bet the strikes were driven by annoyance rather than predatory instinct.

When shad get big - and gizzard shad, for instance, can grow to an astounding 18.8 inches and 3.4 pounds - they’ll hit lures occasionally, despite surviving on a diet of zooplankton, detritus, and in some cases small crustaceans. 

But bait-sized shad just aren’t interested in anything you’re going to throw, so netting is the only option.

I’ve asked around and consulted fishermen across the country, and the answer is always the same: use a castnet (where legal) to catch shad for bait.

About The Author
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Pete grew up fishing on the Great Lakes. Whether he's casting a line in a quiet freshwater stream or battling a monster bass, fishing is his true passion.
Comments
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram