Shad Fishing The American River!

The American River is gem in the heart of California’s State Capital City. Only a short drive from the San Francisco Bay Area - the American provides quality year-round fly fishing for a plethora of desirable species.

One of our favorite species to target near Sacramento is the American Shad. They are a blast to fish for with a fly rod for beginners to advanced fly anglers alike. Often found in numbers that will put many a bend in a fly rod and leave anglers grinning from ear to ear yet tuckered out from fighting these broad strong fish!

If you would like to learn more about targeting shad on the American River, keep reading, or, Call (707)287-2939 for up to date fishing reports, current river conditions and information on experiencing enjoyable and memorable fly fishing for yourself. Dates fill up quickly for many of our offerings so don't delay. You may also fill out our Online Trip Request Form. 

Shad Season on American River

May-June 
Spring on the American River brings Shad back starting in late April. Generally we wait to start guiding the American until the fish start schooling and stacking up preparing to spawn. This usually happens in early May and good fishing continues through the end of June most years. There are opportunities to wade for Shad as long as flows will allow it. While there are fish around earlier, May 15 marks a good time to be able to reliably catch good numbers of Shad as long as flows due to run off allow. During high flows fishing with a knowledgeable guide from a drift boat is the best bet for safety and success.

Shad Fishing The American River

Fly fishing for Shad is not only fun, its also quite user friendly, making it a great option for young; novice anglers and those with tons of experience alike. Depending on your skills, experience and preferences, the American offers opportunities to target shad in a variety of ways. Fly Fishing from a drift boat seems to be the preferred way to access the American River and get out where the Shad are congregated in deeper water where they school up in numbers. In addition, it is possible to walk and wade the river as well depending on flows. Shad are notorious for eating brightly colored flies. They will grab them when dead drifted under an indicator, swung on two handed rods, or fished on sinking lines at depth. Regardless of how you choose to catch them, we highly recommend you give shad fishing on the American a go. We have had parents and grandparents bring young anglers out to experience shad fishing comment that it was “even more fun” it was than they were “expecting”. We have even had several of those guests opt to come back even without their youngster anglers in tow. The American is a special fishery that is often overlooked since it is near a big city but it provides excellent angling for trout, steelhead, striper and Shad!

American River Fly Fishing Guide Rates for Shad

Drift boat trips -
Consist of 8 hours of guided fishing and instruction with lunch and drinks provided - $625 (1 or 2 anglers).

Walk and wade trips -
Walk and wade trips are available - $625 

A.M. or P.M. Half day walk and wade trips -
Available upon request - $485

Jet boat trips 
Jet boat trips for Striper and or Shad - $650

Standard guided fly fishing trips with Off the Hook endorsed guides include rods, reels, bottled water. In addition we offer a limited supply of boots and waders available at no additional cost! Call now to reserve your guide and gear! Call (707)287-2939

Note: California fishing license, Steelhead report card, transportation and Gratuity not included.

Getting here
The American River is accessed off Highway 50 near Sacramento. There are a number of access points including Negro Bar, American River Parkway(Watt Ave), Rossmoor Bar, Ansell Hoffman Park, River Bend Park etc. 

Lodging for the American
We would be happy to make suggestions for accommodations within striking distance of the American. From camping, "glamping", and motels to B & B's there are options for just about every taste and budget. It you would like recommendations please pick up the phone and call us any time at the number below.

Booking an
American River Shad
Guide

To make a reservation, please call 707-287-2939.