How To Keep Shad Alive

How to Keep Shad Alive: A Comprehensive Guide for Anglers

Shad, with their silvery scales and acrobatic leaps, are a prized catch for many anglers. But keeping these lively fish alive requires careful handling and the right equipment. This guide provides comprehensive tips and tricks to ensure your shad remain healthy and vibrant until you're ready to release them or use them for bait.

Understanding Shad Physiology

Before we delve into keeping shad alive, it's crucial to understand their physiology. Shad are highly sensitive to changes in water temperature, oxygen levels, and handling stress. Their delicate gills need a constant supply of oxygen-rich water to survive. Rough handling can easily damage their scales and internal organs, leading to death.

Key Factors Affecting Shad Survival:

• Water Temperature: Maintain water temperature as close as possible to the water temperature where they were caught. Sudden temperature changes are incredibly stressful.
• Oxygen Levels: Adequate dissolved oxygen is essential. Overcrowding and insufficient water circulation can quickly deplete oxygen levels.
• Stress Reduction: Minimize handling. Use appropriate tools and gentle techniques to avoid injury.

Essential Equipment for Keeping Shad Alive

Investing in the right equipment is vital for successful shad preservation. Here's a list of essentials:

• Aerated Livewell: A livewell with an efficient aeration system is your best bet. This ensures a constant supply of oxygenated water. Choose a livewell with a good flow rate and consider adding an extra air pump for optimal performance.
• Livewell Bags: If a livewell isn't feasible, livewell bags are a great alternative, especially for short periods. These bags are designed with breathable material and allow for better oxygen exchange.
• Oxygenating Tablets or Liquid: These supplements help boost oxygen levels in your livewell or bags, particularly beneficial if conditions are challenging.
• Soft Handling Tools: Use a net with a rubber mesh to avoid damaging the delicate scales of the shad.

Best Practices for Keeping Shad Alive

Beyond equipment, proper handling techniques are critical. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Catching and Handling Shad:

1. Quick and Efficient Catch: Minimize the time the shad spends out of the water.
2. Gentle Handling: Avoid squeezing or roughly handling the fish. Support their body weight to prevent injury.
3. Immediate Placement: Place the shad into the aerated livewell or livewell bag as quickly as possible.

Maintaining the Livewell:

1. Proper Water Circulation: Ensure the livewell’s pump is running continuously and efficiently.
2. Water Level Maintenance: Keep the water level consistent to avoid stress from fluctuating water levels.
3. Cleaning the Livewell: Regularly clean the livewell to remove any waste products that could contaminate the water.
4. Water Changes: Consider partially changing the water in the livewell to replenish oxygen levels.

Choosing the Right Release Point

Once you are finished with your fishing trip, it's crucial to release your shad responsibly. Choose a location with similar water conditions to where you caught them, ensuring a smooth transition back into their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long can I keep shad alive in a livewell?

A: The survival time depends on factors like water temperature, oxygen levels, and the health of the shad. Generally, with proper care, you can expect to keep them alive for several hours.

Q: Can I use ice to keep shad cool?

A: No, ice will shock the shad and likely kill them. Maintain the water temperature as close to the environment they were caught in.

Q: What if I don't have a livewell?

A: Use a livewell bag with adequate aeration and keep it in a cool, shaded area.

By following these tips and employing the right equipment, you can significantly improve your chances of keeping shad alive and healthy, whether for release or for bait. Remember, responsible handling is key to ensuring the well-being of these fascinating fish.