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Afternoon Shad Fishing Adventure | Weldon, NC
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- 100 Rockfish Dr, Weldon, NC, USA
- $175 - $600 price range
Summary
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Shad Battles on Film
Lines out, something's moved out of the water
Another morning that started with a cast
The kind of day anglers remember for years
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Lines out, something's moved out of the water
Another morning that started with a cast
The kind of day anglers remember for years
null
Lines out, something's moved out of the water
Another morning that started with a cast
The kind of day anglers remember for years
Shad Fishing Afternoon in Weldon, NC
Hey there, fellow anglers! If you're itching for some serious rod-bending action, you've got to check out our half-day shad fishing trip right here in Weldon, North Carolina. We're talking about an afternoon packed with non-stop excitement as you battle it out with some of the feistiest fish in the Roanoke River. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip is guaranteed to get your heart racing and your arms aching (in the best way possible, of course).
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're out on the sparkling Roanoke River, the afternoon sun warming your back as you cast your line into the shad-rich waters. Our experienced guides know exactly where these silver bullets are hiding, and we'll put you right in the thick of the action. You'll be using light tackle, which means even a modest-sized shad will feel like you're reeling in a submarine. And the best part? We provide all the gear, so you can just show up ready to fish. No need to lug your tackle box around or worry about having the right bait – we've got you covered from rod to reel.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, there's something special about shad fishing in Weldon. These fish aren't just abundant; they're fighters through and through. When a shad takes your bait, be prepared for some serious acrobatics. They'll jump, they'll run, they'll do everything in their power to shake that hook. It's this kind of challenge that keeps anglers coming back year after year. And with a limit of three guests per trip, you're guaranteed personalized attention from your guide. We'll share tips, tricks, and maybe even a few fish tales as we work to put you on the hottest spots.
Species You'll Want to Hook
On this trip, we're mainly targeting two types of shad: American Shad and Hickory Shad. Let's break 'em down for you:
American Shad: These are the heavyweights of the shad world, often tipping the scales at 3-8 pounds. They're known for their powerful runs and impressive stamina. American Shad typically show up in Weldon from late March through May, with the peak usually hitting in April. What makes them so exciting? Their size and strength make for an unforgettable fight on light tackle. Plus, they're just darn pretty fish with their silvery sides and dark spots along the shoulder.
Hickory Shad: Don't let their smaller size fool you – Hickory Shad are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish you'll encounter. Averaging 1-2 pounds, these little dynamos are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps. They usually arrive a bit earlier than their American cousins, with the action heating up in March and continuing through April. Anglers love Hickory Shad for their sheer numbers and the fast-paced fishing they provide. When the Hickories are running, it's not uncommon to hook up on nearly every cast!
Top Catches This Season
Now, I don't want to brag, but this season has been off the charts. We've been seeing some monster American Shad, with a few lucky anglers landing fish pushing the 8-pound mark. And the Hickories? They've been so thick in some spots you could almost walk across their backs. Of course, every day on the water is different, but that's part of the excitement. One thing's for sure – you're in for some world-class shad fishing when you join us in Weldon.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, folks, let's cut to the chase. If you're looking for an afternoon of non-stop fishing action, jaw-dropping fights, and the chance to tangle with some of the most exciting fish the Roanoke River has to offer, then this half-day shad trip is calling your name. Remember, we keep our groups small to maximize your fishing time and ensure you get the full benefit of your guide's expertise. So don't wait – the shad are running, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Grab your hat, slap on some sunscreen, and let's get out there and bend some rods! Book now, and get ready for an afternoon of fishing you'll be bragging about for years to come. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
American Gizzard Shad
Shad are a real treat to catch here in Weldon. These silver-sided fish typically run 20-24 inches long and put up a surprisingly good fight for their size. You'll find them in coastal waters and rivers, with the best action happening in April and May when they're swimming upstream to spawn. Shad love to hug the shorelines to avoid strong currents, so we'll focus our casts within about 30 feet of the bank. Folks enjoy targeting shad not just for the fun of it, but also for their tasty meat and prized roe. They've got a delicate flavor that doesn't need much fussing in the kitchen. When it comes to landing these guys, I like using a light spinning rod with white or yellow flies that have red heads. It's a simple setup, but it works wonders. Just remember, shad can detect ultrasonic signals, so keep the chatter down if you want to improve your chances. Whether you're after a good fight or a good meal, shad fishing here is hard to beat.
Shad
American Gizzard Shad aren't usually the star of the show, but they're an interesting catch all the same. These chunky little guys typically run 8-14 inches long, with a silvery-green color that fades to plain silver on the belly. You'll spot them by their deeply forked tail and those telltale black spots behind the gills. We usually find gizzard shad in lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving parts of rivers. They're not picky eaters - they'll filter-feed on just about anything that fits in their small mouths. While they're not prized for eating, they make excellent bait for other game fish. If you're keen on catching some, I'd suggest using a cast net or a flasher rig with small hooks. These fish are most active in warmer months, often swimming in large schools. They're fun to target if you want to practice your technique or stock up on bait. Just keep in mind, they reproduce like crazy and can sometimes throw off the local ecosystem. Still, watching a school of gizzard shad is a pretty cool sight on the water.
About the Southern Sun Guides
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 27
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 90
