American Shad
Shad fishing with our guides is spectacular. They are the most under-fished game fish in the Umpqua River and when you hook a 5 lb shad, the ensuing battle will rival that of a 12 lb steelhead. Not only is the American shad a fine fighting fish, but the roe is considered a rare delicacy and when smoked or canned the meat is superb.
The Umpqua River shad run starts early May and extends through the end of June. The average fish weighs 2 to 5 lbs. The Big K offers excellent fishing trips for these fiercely fighting fish. It is not uncommon to hook 50 fish per trip.
- Season: April-June
- Peak Time: Early May-Mid June
- Average Size: 2-3lbs.
On the ranch we offer secluded holes from a drift boat. When your arm tires from battling these productive fish, you can always try the smallmouth bass. We use Ultra light rods, shad darts, etc., 6lb. test.
