UTERAmerican shad fishing in Connecticut freshwater
In Connecticut freshwater, American shad peak May and are around April–June, according to Fish Scouter's month-by-month season calendar. May: Connecticut River at Enfield and Windsor Locks — the shad capital.
Not in Connecticut freshwater this month.
American shad in Connecticut freshwater, month by month
- JanuaryNot here
- FebruaryNot here
- MarchNot here
- AprilArriving
- MayPeakConnecticut River at Enfield and Windsor Locks — the shad capital.
- JuneLeaving
- JulyNot here
- AugustNot here
- SeptemberNot here
- OctoberNot here
- NovemberNot here
- DecemberNot here
Where to fish American shad near Connecticut River, Housatonic River, Farmington River
The tidal and fresh Connecticut River, the Farmington and Housatonic trout rivers, and the bass and pike lakes of the western hills.
What to use for American shad
- Leader10–20 lb fluorocarbon
- Hook#2–3/0
- Jig head1/8–1/2 oz
- Braid10–30 lb
Feeds in 50–72°F water, best at 58–68°F.
Questions anglers ask
When is the best time to catch American shad in Connecticut freshwater?
Peak season is May. American shad are in Connecticut freshwater April–June. May: Connecticut River at Enfield and Windsor Locks — the shad capital.
Where do American shad hold in Connecticut freshwater?
Look on river, bridge — around Connecticut River, Housatonic River, Farmington River, Candlewood Lake, Lake Lillinonah.
What is the best bait for American shad in Connecticut freshwater?
Tackle: leader 10–20 lb fluorocarbon, hook #2–3/0, jig head 1/8–1/2 oz, braid 10–30 lb.
What are the rules for American shad in Connecticut freshwater?
Size and bag limits and closed seasons are set by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) and change — read the current rule at https://portal.ct.gov/deep/fishing/regulations/fishing-regulations before you keep a fish. A licence is sold at https://portal.ct.gov/deep/fishing/general-information/fisheries-licenses-and-permits.
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All about American shad · Connecticut fresh water, the whole year