One of the things I love most about North Carolina is that it offers anglers a wealth of opportunities to pursue different fish species. When early spring approaches in Eastern North Carolina, one of the most sought-after species is shad. The Roanoke River is a prime destination for shad fishing but there are several other tributaries where shad can be caught and in large quantities! In this blog post, we’ll discuss this epic seasonal fishing opportunity and tell you more about where and how to target this species of fish.
- The Roanoke River: A Shad Haven: The Roanoke River, winding its way through the picturesque landscapes of North Carolina, is world renowned for striped bass. Weldon North Carolina on the Roanoke is known as the “Rockfish Capital of the World.” However, prior to the striped bass moving up the river, large schools of American and Hickory shad make their way up the river for spawning, creating an amazing seasonal angling opportunity. The river’s diverse habitat, ranging from shallow flats to deep pools, provides ample opportunities for anglers to target shad using various techniques.
- Prime Time for Shad Fishing: Shad fishing on the Roanoke River typically hits its peak in the spring months, usually from late March to early May. During this time, as water temperatures rise, shad migrate upstream in impressive numbers. It is not unusual for anglers to have triple digit days catching shad one after another and sometimes two at a time! When the season is at it’s peak the banks of the Roanoke at Weldon will be lined with fisherman targeting this fun to catch fish.
- Tackling Techniques: Shad fishing on the Roanoke River involves employing a mix of traditional and modern techniques. Anglers commonly use shad darts, shad spoons, or soft plastic grubs often tied double to catch them two at a time. Fly fishing enthusiasts find success with brightly colored flies that mimic the shad’s natural prey. The key is to experiment with different lure colors and presentations until you find what works best on any given day. It has been our experience that fisherman in this area are very friendly and most of them will gladly tell you what they are biting on that day and if they are catching them. Local anglers who want to support small business owners should check out RD’s Baits on Facebook located near Smithfield/Selma (we bought all our tackle from RD’s Baits last season.) Other places in Eastern North Carolina to pick up shad tackle include: Nash Rod & Reel in Rocky Mount, Roberson & Dupree Shoe Store and ACE Hardware in Tarboro, Greenville Marine Tackle Shop in Greenville, and Eastside Bait & Tackle in little Washington
- River Etiquette and Regulations: When engaging in shad fishing on the Roanoke River, it’s essential to adhere to river etiquette and regulations. The Roanoke River can be VERY crowded this time of year and it continues on into striper season. Do your best to respect other anglers’ space whether they are fishing from a boat or the bank. Be mindful of the environment, and follow catch-and-release practices to preserve the shad population. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the specific fishing regulations for shad on the Roanoke River and other tributaries mentioned below!
- Shad Fishing Beyond the Roanoke: While the Roanoke River is a shad fishing hotspot, Eastern North Carolina offers a variety of other water bodies that are home to plentiful shad populations. The Tar River, Neuse River, and the Cape Fear River are just a few examples of waters where shad fishing can be fruitful. Each river presents its unique challenges and rewards, making it worthwhile for anglers to explore different regions. One of the best ways I have found to keep up with the migration is by following the NC-Shad Facebook group. Anglers all over Eastern North Carolina post migration and catch reports throughout the season.
- Shad Species in North Carolina: North Carolina is home to both American and hickory shad, each with its distinct characteristics. American shad, known for their size and powerful runs, are particularly prevalent in larger rivers like the Roanoke. Hickory shad, slightly smaller in size, are found in abundance across various river systems, providing anglers with diverse opportunities for shad fishing adventures.
Fishing for shad on the Roanoke River and other parts of Eastern North Carolina is a captivating experience that combines the thrill of the chase with the natural beauty of the state’s waterways. If you haven’t targeted this species of fish yet, I encourage you to become part of the rich tradition of shad fishing in the Tar Heel State. I can assure you, fighting these aggressive fish in the fast moving waters of a river like the Roanoke one after another are a fishing experience you won’t soon forget. Check out our YouTube videos from last season where we fished for shad on the Tar River and the a few weeks later caught a bunch of them on the Roanoke. Tight lines!
