UTERAmerican shad fishing in Massachusetts freshwater
In Massachusetts freshwater, American shad peak May and are around May–June, according to Fish Scouter's month-by-month season calendar. May: Holyoke Dam on the Connecticut.
Not in Massachusetts freshwater this month.
American shad in Massachusetts freshwater, month by month
- JanuaryNot here
- FebruaryNot here
- MarchNot here
- AprilNot here
- MayPeakHolyoke Dam on the Connecticut.
- JuneLeaving
- JulyNot here
- AugustNot here
- SeptemberNot here
- OctoberNot here
- NovemberNot here
- DecemberNot here
Where to fish American shad near Quabbin Reservoir, Wachusett Reservoir, Deerfield River
Quabbin and Wachusett for lake trout and smallmouth, the Swift and Deerfield trout tailwaters, kettle ponds, and the Connecticut River's shad.
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 Massachusetts freshwater?
Peak season is May. American shad are in Massachusetts freshwater May–June. May: Holyoke Dam on the Connecticut.
Where do American shad hold in Massachusetts freshwater?
Look on river, bridge — around Quabbin Reservoir, Wachusett Reservoir, Deerfield River, Swift River, Connecticut River.
What is the best bait for American shad in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts freshwater?
Size and bag limits and closed seasons are set by the MassWildlife and the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MassWildlife) and change — read the current rule at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/freshwater-fishing-regulations before you keep a fish. A licence is sold at https://www.mass.gov/buy-fishing-or-hunting-licenses.
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All about American shad · Massachusetts fresh water, the whole year