Last summer we bought a castnet, and one day, spent a couple of hours in search of baitfish, and never found none. I know you can see them working the top of the water sometimes, but what about when you can't? Where do you begin the search for baitfish (primarily shad) in the Miss. River?
A lot of times you will see what looks like a big black blob moving under the water.Shad swim in really big schools and thats what they look like.You might also try to lure them in with breadcrumbs or a light at night.
Look for any type of warm water discharge from factories or power plants. If these are not available, the bait like fast water so look at tailraces on dams. If this is still not available go to the mouth of a small stream where the water should be several degrees warmer. Typically you can catch some at these spots even if you can't see them.............no a whole net full but you should be able to get enough to fish with a few cast.
Somtimes if i know i will have a hard time finding shad in the river I will go to the lake (at night) and throw my net under the lights at boat ramps, that usually always works good for shad and perch, and you dont have to worry about tearing up your net.
If you have a boat and good fish finder, You can locate what is called bait balls which usually are shad on your finder. On lakes during a windy day the wind will force plankton toward the bank that its blowing against. The shad feed on plankton and will generally follow the bait. Good luck
I just bought one too. Haven't even had a chance to wet it yet. I have heard that the downriver side of tied up barges are a good place. Thats one of the first places I'm gonna try. Also Its no secret that the biguns haunt the shallows at night to feed. Well that means that is where the baitfish are. Good luck and if you find a good place please let me know. Will I see you at the gathering at Keokuk this summer? have a good one just
I have heard that the downriver side of tied up barges are a good place. Hey Bob, Where are you going to find tied up barges at?:confused2: I was just wondering since I've never seen too many up around MP.LOL:big_smile:
LOL Nope not any here. I do get over to the big river sometimes and want to get there more often. I haven't thought of using the castnet on the Skunk. I'm afraid I'd get it snagged and tear it. I'm kinda fond of dip baits here. During the summer this whole damned river is shallow.lol .
Alot of times shad will be over the edge of boat ramp or even on top of it. Goodluck Sometimes a net must give its life so that you can learn where bait is.
Hi Angela try looking for birds working the water they are pretty in tune with were the bait is I am talking about gulls or terns diving into the water. You can also look for blue herons and other wading type birds or kingfishers diving the surface this has worked for me in the past. Good Luck and tight lines.
I fish the Ohio river and the shad travel from the river up into small creeks in the spring and fall.I always see a ton of them at warm water discharges from the mills we have up here..hope i helped
