All Shad nuts......

[Carl Blackledge]

For all you SHAD nuts.....there's Shad in the Russian and I was just told that Shad flies are "flying" out the door from both of the fly shops that service the Russian River. I haven't been Shad fishing yet, however the word is that it's "on" at Johnson's Beach. Most of the guys are using a number 2 shooting head with a piece of mono-filament in 8-pound test and about 5-7 feet long for a leader. I also heard the fish they've been getting are nice, big hens which is good for the fight.


Carl Blackledge

[Jeff C.]

That great to hear Carl! It should be great on the American in a week or two. The only problem is the high flows will make wading difficult!

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

How is the flow, wading, water clarity on the Russian River Carl?

Is this going to be a top year for the Russian River Shad run?

[Carl Blackledge]

Bill,

The flow on the Russian is around 850 CFS. The fisherman are already requesting smaller flies, Both shops called for more flies today. It seems the hot green-dark green and the yellow Stren fly all with flashy tails are the best bet. The wading is easy, most wear waders however I guess you could wet wade. Most of the Shad guys use single hand rods 5-6 wt. with a number 2 or 3 shooting heads, everything is real simple.

I will be heading down there on Tuesday and fish to dark, they are catching big fat hens, I believe what the guys are telling me cause all that I asked told me the same story as they ordered more flies. It sounds like one of the best Shad years in a long time.

Now you know what I know....or you could call King's 707-869-2156

Good luck

Carl Blackledge

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

Some of our members should drive over there while the American is so high.

I guess the Russian is kind of slow and lakey which would be good for some of these guys to see.

[BradW]

Carl, how are the shad holding up on the Russian? Still good action?

[Carl Blackledge]

I heard it slowed down a little....call the outdoor pro shop and ask for the fly guy

Carl

[lee s.]

The two in the "bucket" may land 4-8 fish in a morning or evening session......but you had better find THE spot, as usual. They are still grabbing amnesia or stren bugs well in #6-#10.
....lee s.

[Carl Blackledge]

The two in the "bucket" may land 4-8 fish in a morning or evening session......but you had better find THE spot, as usual. They are still grabbing amnesia or stren bugs well in #6-#10.
....lee s.

Lee,

Sounds pretty much like "shad" fishing to me.

Being in the bucket is important with all fishing, knowing the River doesn't hurt either.

Carl Blackledge

[BradW]

Thanks for the info. I may go next Saturday.