It is shad time on the American River. We have been catching them since April and they are currently in the river in good numbers. American shad are a highly underrated sportfish that fight hard, jump, and provide ample opportunities for a good time on a fly rod. We primarily catch them by swinging single hand rods with sinking lines out of the boat while on anchor and depending on angler's preferences, other techniques can be used as well. They are a lot of fun and can be a great introduction to the fly rod for new anglers.