Get ready to reel in some serious action on the Roanoke River! Our Half Day Fishing Trip in Weldon, NC is where the shad are jumpin' and the livin' is easy. We're talking 5 hours of non-stop casting, catching, and grinning from ear to ear. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip is guaranteed to get your heart racing and your rod bending.
Picture this: You're out on the Roanoke at dawn, mist rising off the water, and your guide's got the inside scoop on where the shad are schooling. We're not messing around - you could be hauling in over 100 fish if the river gods are smiling! American and Hickory Shad are the stars of the show, and let me tell you, these little fighters punch well above their weight. Every cast is a chance to feel that telltale tug and the rush of adrenaline as you battle your catch to the boat. Our experienced guides know every nook and cranny of these waters, so you'll be right in the thick of the action from the get-go.
Alright, let's talk tackle. We're using light spinning gear that's perfect for the job - sensitive enough to detect the lightest nibble but sturdy enough to handle those feisty shad. You'll be flinging small shad darts and flutter spoons, working the current just right to entice those silver bullets. Our guides will show you the ropes, from the perfect cast to the subtle techniques that'll have you hooking shad like a pro. And don't worry about bringing your own gear - we've got you covered with top-notch equipment that's tried and tested on these waters.
American Shad are the heavyweights of the shad world, tipping the scales at 3-8 pounds. These bad boys are known as the "poor man's tarpon" for good reason - they'll leap and run, giving you a fight worthy of a fish twice their size. Spring is prime time for American Shad, with March to May being the sweet spot. They're making their annual spawning run up the Roanoke, which means they're hungry and ready to smash your lure.
Hickory Shad might be smaller, usually 1-2 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and fight. These guys are like lit firecrackers on the end of your line, zipping and zigzagging all over the place. They typically show up a bit earlier than their American cousins, so if you're out in February or early March, you might just hit the Hickory jackpot. Both species are a blast to catch and make for some seriously good eating if you're into that.
Listen, there's a reason Weldon is called the "Shad Capital of the World." This isn't just fishing - it's a full-on shad bonanza. You're not just casting a line; you're tapping into a local tradition that's been drawing anglers from all over for generations. The thrill of feeling that first hit, the satisfaction of a perfect hook-set, and the pure joy of watching your buddy's rod double over - it's addictive stuff. Plus, with our cozy 3-person max on the boat, you're getting personalized attention and plenty of elbow room to work those honey holes.
So here's the deal - if you're looking for a half-day of fast-paced fishing action that'll leave your arms sore and your face hurting from grinning, this is your ticket. We've got the knowledge, we've got the spots, and we've got the shad. All we need is you. Grab your fishing buddies, your lucky hat, and maybe a camera to prove your fish tales. The shad are calling, and trust me, you don't want to miss this. Book your spot now with Southern Sun Guides, and let's make some waves on the Roanoke. The only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner. Tight lines, folks!
Shad are real fighters for their size, usually coming in at 20-24 inches and up to 12 pounds. You'll find 'em swimming in schools near the coast, but they head upstream to spawn when it warms up. April and May are prime time to catch these silvery battlers in our local rivers. Folks love going after shad because they put up a scrappy fight on light tackle, and their meat is mighty tasty too. The roe is considered a delicacy in some parts. To land one, try fishing close to shore where the current's strong - they like to hug the banks as they swim upstream. A long, light spinning rod works best. Here's a local trick: use flies with white or yellow bodies and red heads. They can't seem to resist 'em. Just remember, these fish are making a long journey to spawn, so we always encourage catch and release to keep the population healthy for years to come.
American Gizzard Shad aren't your typical game fish, but they're interesting critters. Most run 8-14 inches long, with a silvery-green color that fades to plain silver on the belly. You'll spot 'em by their plump bodies and deeply forked tails. These guys mostly hang out in large lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving rivers, usually near the bottom in muddy or rocky areas. While we don't target them for eating, they're valuable as bait for other game fish. Their strong, fishy smell drives other predators wild. If you want to catch some for bait, try using a cast net or a flasher rig with small hooks. They're most active in warmer months. One cool thing about Gizzard Shad - they've got a built-in grinder. That gizzard helps them digest just about anything they filter out of the water. Just be careful if you're targeting them - they can reproduce like crazy and throw off the local ecosystem if there are too many. It's all about balance out here on the water.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 27
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 90