Jeff Ching Daily Shad Report
Run Total: 302
Today was a better day. Earle and I got out mid-morning and there were a lot of boats downriver below us. There were peolple fishing everywhere. We hung out up high until the fleet left.
we found Earle’s 35 lb Tornado anchor and he almost went overboard grabbing it. We moved down to another run and caught fish swinging. Earle dropped his net after landing a fish but we got it back 20 yards down river with a gaff.
We ended up putting about 20 fish to the boat. Definitely a better day than yesterday!
we found Earle’s 35 lb Tornado anchor and he almost went overboard grabbing it. We moved down to another run and caught fish swinging. Earle dropped his net after landing a fish but we got it back 20 yards down river with a gaff.
We ended up putting about 20 fish to the boat. Definitely a better day than yesterday!
Dennis Estrada and Noi Khamsanthia Fishing Report
American River Shad Fishing Report – May 24, 2026
Fishermen: Dennis Estrada and Noi Khamsanthia
Guide: Jon Hubbard of Nor Cal Fly Guides
River Conditions
– Water Fished: American River
– Section Fished: Sailor Bar to Rossmoor via drift boat
– Water Clarity: Clear
– Flows: 1,900 cfs
Tackle & Techniques
The crew targeted shad using an indicator setup in relatively shallow water. Productive drifts were achieved by keeping flies down while maintaining a natural presentation through the softer seams and tailouts.
– Method Used: Indicator fishing
– Rod Setup: 10-foot 6-weight fly rods with matching reels, indicator lines, and leaders long enough to manage two flies
Best Flies
– Big D’s Beadhead Banger – Size 10
– Rio’s Pink Bead He Man – Size 16
– Doug’s Sweet Pea – Size 16
– Roza’s Matchstick Quill – Size 14
Pro Tip
The river is running shallow right now. Set your indicator approximately 4 to 6 feet above the fly to keep your presentation in the strike zone without snagging the bottom.
Shad fishing on the American continues to provide solid action, especially during lower-light periods and in moving water with defined seams. Clear water conditions made accurate drifts and proper depth control essential throughout the day. From conversations with other fly fishermen, the consensus is that prime time has not begun. Get on it!
Fishermen: Dennis Estrada and Noi Khamsanthia
Guide: Jon Hubbard of Nor Cal Fly Guides
River Conditions
– Water Fished: American River
– Section Fished: Sailor Bar to Rossmoor via drift boat
– Water Clarity: Clear
– Flows: 1,900 cfs
Tackle & Techniques
The crew targeted shad using an indicator setup in relatively shallow water. Productive drifts were achieved by keeping flies down while maintaining a natural presentation through the softer seams and tailouts.
– Method Used: Indicator fishing
– Rod Setup: 10-foot 6-weight fly rods with matching reels, indicator lines, and leaders long enough to manage two flies
Best Flies
– Big D’s Beadhead Banger – Size 10
– Rio’s Pink Bead He Man – Size 16
– Doug’s Sweet Pea – Size 16
– Roza’s Matchstick Quill – Size 14
Pro Tip
The river is running shallow right now. Set your indicator approximately 4 to 6 feet above the fly to keep your presentation in the strike zone without snagging the bottom.
Shad fishing on the American continues to provide solid action, especially during lower-light periods and in moving water with defined seams. Clear water conditions made accurate drifts and proper depth control essential throughout the day. From conversations with other fly fishermen, the consensus is that prime time has not begun. Get on it!
