American Shad

American shad are anadromous  fish that migrate from the ocean into rivers to spawn. In NY, they run up the Hudson River and other coastal rivers in spring. Prefer moderate current and deeper pools during spawning runs.

American shad have a distinct spring spawning run. Spring (April-June): Major spawning run into Hudson River, peak fishing season. Summer-Fall (July-November): Return to ocean, not targeted in NY. Winter (December-March): Ocean residents, not present in NY waters. The Hudson River shad run is legendary, typically peaking in May.

Silvery body with row of dark spots behind gill cover. Deeply forked tail. Compressed body. Typically 3-5 lbs. Larger than hickory shad. Lower jaw fits into notch in upper jaw. Herring-like appearance but much larger.