Shad Fishing in Virginia – A Spring Tradition You Don’t Want to Miss
When spring rolls around in Virginia, anglers across the state gear up for one of the most exciting fisheries of the year—shad season. These hard-fighting, fast-running fish return to Virginia’s rivers every spring to spawn, and they offer some of the most action-packed fly fishing opportunities of the season. If you’ve never experienced the shad run, now’s the time to grab your gear and get in on the fun.
What Are Shad?
Virginia is home to two primary species of shad that attract anglers: the American shad and the Hickory shad. While both are anadromous—meaning they live in saltwater but migrate into freshwater rivers to spawn—Hickory shad are the more aggressive and are often referred to as the “poor man’s tarpon” thanks to their acrobatic leaps and fierce runs.
Though once a vital food source in colonial America, shad populations have declined over the centuries due to overfishing and damming of rivers. Fortunately, catch-and-release fishing for shad remains a sustainable and thrilling way to enjoy this piece of angling heritage.
Best Rivers for Shad Fishing in Virginia
Virginia offers several rivers that support healthy shad runs. Some of the best places to target them include:
- Rappahannock River (Fredericksburg): This is a top destination during the spring run, especially near Old Mill Park. The river is accessible and offers plenty of shoreline for casting.
- James River (Richmond): The fall line near downtown Richmond becomes a hot spot in March and April. The public access points make it easy to wade or fish from shore.
- Appomattox River: This lesser-known tributary can offer good action when the water conditions are right and pressure is light.
- Roanoke River (below the dam in Weldon, NC): While just across the state line, this stretch of river is famous for massive Hickory shad runs and is worth the trip for die-hard shad anglers.
When to Fish
The shad run typically begins in mid to late March and can last through early May, depending on water temperatures and river conditions. The magic number is usually when the water hits about 55°F–60°F. That’s when things really start to fire up.
Keep an eye on river gauges, weather patterns, and fishing reports to time your trip. At Murray’s Fly Shop, we’re always happy to offer current info on what’s happening around the state.
Gear and Tactics
One of the best things about shad fishing is its simplicity. You don’t need ultra-specialized gear to get started.
- Rod: A 6 to 8 -weight fly rod with a medium-fast to fast action works well.
- Line: Sink-tip or full sinking lines help you get your fly down in fast current.
- Flies: Small, flashy patterns are the key. Think Clouser Minnnows, Marauders, and other bright streamers. Check out our Shad Fly Assortment.
- Leader: Murray’s 6′ Fluorocarbon Sinking Leader 0x-2x, Scientific Anglers Sonar Leaders Sink 3 or Sink 6
Let your fly sink near the bottom, strip it back with short, quick pulls, and hold on tight—shad often strike hard and fast.
Tips for Success
- Cover water: Shad are constantly moving. If you’re not getting bites, move around and find active fish.
- Fish the seams: Target current breaks, eddies, and drop-offs where shad tend to rest.
- Go light: Lighter flies can sometimes outperform heavy ones, especially in low water conditions.
Final Thoughts
Shad fishing in Virginia is a rite of spring that offers an unbeatable combination of history, excitement, and accessibility. Whether you’re a seasoned fly angler or brand new to the sport, chasing shad is an excellent way to shake off the winter blues and kick off the fishing season.
Swing by Murray’s Fly Shop for the right flies, gear, and up-to-date advice to make your shad trip a success. We love seeing our customers head out and come back with wide smiles and fish stories.
Tight lines and happy spring fishing!
