First Shad Since 2016

Type: Tidal
Region: Central
Location: Susquehanna River

When I was a lot younger (or so it seemed, a mere five years ago) I could not wait for the shad run to begin in April each year. I would hit Conowingo Dam and Deer Creek every chance I got. I would climb the rocks everywhere in numerous locations and wade chest-deep, casting until my arms fell off. Now I am physically limited to the rail at Fisherman's Park, just praying for a good bite in that one minuscule and singular strike zone. So, after my trip to the Susquehanna on Friday, May 21, I can say with great pleasure that I caught my first hickory shad since May, 2016. I simply had to get a photo before a quick and safe release. Moments later a good sized striper hit my shad dart, and he was released instantly. To add to the species list I caught a couple white perch also. A pretty successful day to celebrate my recent fully vaccinated status!