HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAD?
Choosing the right shad depends on several factors including the species to be fished, the water conditions and the season. For smaller predatory fish like perch, shads up to 5 cm are ideal, while for larger predatory fish like pike, larger sizes up to 25 cm are recommended. The colour of the shad also plays a crucial role; use natural colours in clear water and brighter shades in murky water to attract attention.
TECHNIQUES FOR FISHING WITH SHADS
Shads can be used in different ways. Popular techniques include casting from shore and trolling from a boat. When casting, shads are often brought in with short taps, mimicking the movement of a baitfish. Dropshotting with smaller shads is another effective method, especially for catching perch, where the shad is presented just above the bottom.
MOUNTING AND ADJUSTING SHADS
Mounting shads correctly is essential for successful fishing. A jighead or hook should fit the size of the shad well; the hook should protrude about a third of the way from the head. For larger shads, an extra treble hook can be attached to the tail to increase the chance of being caught. Using a bit of super glue can help secure the shad firmly to the lead head.