Hickory Shad Fishing in Venice, LA
Local guides, seasonality, and regulations for hickory shad in Venice.
Fishing Charters in Louisiana
Browse fishing charters in Louisiana that can help you catch hickory shad.


Coast And Canyon Outfitters Southpass Camp
Buras, Louisiana
Coast & Canyon Outfitters is Venice, LA's premier fishing charter & lodging destination.


D Wills Outdoor Adventures
Venice, Louisiana
Explore the gallery at D Will's Outdoor Adventure and experience the excitement of fishing and hunting in Venice, Louisiana. View stunning images of successful trips led by expert guide Derrick Williams, showcasing the thrill of outdoor adventures and the beauty of the Louisiana wilderness.


Cajun Knot Reel Adventures
Venice, Louisiana


Salty Hooker Sportfishing
Venice, Louisiana
Fishing Charters out of Venice, LA aboard the Salty Hooker Sportfishing Charter. Choose from half day fishing trips, full day fishing, offshore fishing trips.


Venice Adventures
Venice, Louisiana


Geaux Fish Outfitters
Venice, Louisiana
Set out with a top Venice LA Fishing Guide and experience world-class fishing for trophy redfish, flounder, and speckled trout.


Fin And Feather Guide Service
St Bernard, Louisiana


Fish Fourchon Charters
Golden Meadow, Louisiana


Pac Guide Service
Montegut, Louisiana
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Kick Em Up Fishing Charters
Grand Isle, Louisiana


Reel Vet Charters
Thibodaux, Louisiana


Poissonrougeonthefly
Theriot, Louisiana
Poisson Rouge on the Fly is a fly-fishing service based out of Houma, Louisiana. Book a Trip with Captain Mike Lambert!
Best Time to Catch Hickory Shad
Peak season: April. Also good: May.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Hickory Shad
The Hickory Shad is a migratory fish that provides exciting angling opportunities, particularly during its annual spawning runs. While smaller than its American Shad cousin, the Hickory Shad is known for its aggressive strikes and energetic fights, making it a popular target for light tackle enthusiasts. They are found in various water types, including coastal rivers and estuaries along the Atlantic coast from Florida to Canada.
Hickory Shad Fishing in Venice
While Venice is renowned for its world-class saltwater fishing, targeting Hickory Shad here is an uncommon but potentially rewarding pursuit during the cooler months. These fish aren't a primary target in this region, but they can be found in the brackish waters of the Mississippi River Delta and its associated bayous. Look for them from late fall through early spring (November-March) as they move into these areas. Focus on the smaller bayous and canals that branch off the main river channels, particularly those with some current flow. Small jigs, spinners, and shad darts are your best bet. Access can be challenging, often requiring a shallow-draft boat to navigate the marshy terrain. A local tip is to target areas near the freshwater diversions, as these can attract baitfish and, in turn, shad. While not guaranteed, finding shad in this area offers a unique change of pace from the typical Venice fishing experience. Check local regulations as they may change frequently in this area of the state.
Plan a Trip to Venice
See what's biting in Venice, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Hickory Shad
Hickory Shad Fishing Regulations in Louisiana
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
25 per day
Size Limit
None
License Required
Basic Fishing License
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Louisiana state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to catch Hickory Shad in Venice, LA?
The best months for Hickory Shad in Venice are April.
What are the Hickory Shad fishing regulations in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the season is year-round, the daily bag limit is 25 per day, the minimum size is None. Regulations change throughout the year, so confirm current rules with the Louisiana wildlife agency before fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Hickory Shad in Louisiana?
Basic Fishing License. On a guided charter, anglers are often covered under the captain's license — confirm with your guide when booking.
Other Species to Fish in Venice
Ready to Catch Hickory Shad in Venice?
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