How to Use Shad Bait
- 1). Hook a shad through the lips from the top to the bottom to keep the bait alive as long as possible. This technique forces the bait to swim downward toward deeper water and is a good rig for trolling.
- 2). Hook the shad through the dorsal fin to make the bait swim upward. This results in a lively presentation, but the shad is likely to wear out faster than when lip-hooked.
- 3). Insert the hook through the anal fin to force the shade to swim deep and away from the line. This is a good rigging when fishing from shore or anchored in the water on a boat.
- 4). Cast the line gingerly to prevent the bait from flying off the hook and to minimize shock when the shad hits the water. Vigorous casting will knock scales off the shad, shortening its life and ability to swim.
- 5). Aim for submerged structure such as dead trees and shrubs or underwater vegetation where big fish lay in wait for a meal.
- 6). Let the shad do its work. Leave the bait in the water as long as possible so gamefish will be drawn to the sight and sounds of a distressed baitfish. Remember, frequent casting will kill live shad more quickly than the patient angler who casts once and leaves the shad to swim.
