11 best shad lures

Shad lures are a type of fishing lure specifically designed to mimic the appearance and swimming behavior of shad, which are a common baitfish species in many bodies of water. These lures are popular among anglers targeting various game fish species, as shad are a common prey item for many freshwater and saltwater predators.Here's what you should know about shad lures:

  1. Design: Shad lures are typically designed to resemble shad in terms of shape, size, and coloration. They often have a sleek, slender body shape with a shad-like profile. The color patterns on these lures aim to mimic the natural colors of shad, which can vary from silvery to greenish-blue, depending on the specific shad species and the waters they inhabit.

  2. Action: Shad lures are engineered to imitate the swimming action of real shad. This involves a wobbling or side-to-side motion as they are retrieved through the water. This realistic action can attract predatory fish that actively hunt shad.

  3. Types: There are various types of shad lures, including soft plastic swimbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and jerkbaits. Each type has its unique characteristics and is suited for different fishing situations and target species.

  4. Sizes: Shad lures come in a range of sizes to match the size of the shad that are present in the waters where you're fishing. Smaller lures are often used for species like bass, while larger ones may be used for larger predators like pike or muskie.

  5. Rigging: Depending on the type of shad lure, they can be rigged in different ways. Soft plastic swimbaits, for example, are often rigged on a jighead, while crankbaits may have treble hooks attached. The choice of rigging depends on the lure type and the angler's preferences.

  6. Target Species: Shad lures can be effective for catching a variety of game fish, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, walleye, pike, muskie, and even saltwater species like striped bass and redfish.

  7. Retrieve Techniques: The retrieve technique used with shad lures can vary. Some lures are designed for slow, steady retrieves, while others benefit from erratic or stop-and-go retrieves. Experimenting with different retrieval techniques can help attract fish.

  8. Seasonality: The effectiveness of shad lures may vary depending on the season and the specific feeding habits of the target species. Shad lures are often used when shad are a primary forage fish during certain times of the year.

In summary, shad lures are fishing lures designed to mimic the appearance and swimming action of shad, a common baitfish species. They come in various types, sizes, and styles to suit different fishing situations and target species. Anglers often use shad lures to attract predatory fish that actively feed on shad, making them a valuable addition to their tackle boxes when pursuing a wide range of game fish.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best shad lures on the market
  

JOHNCOO Fishing Lure 3D Eyes Shad Lure Soft Bait Soft Silicone Bait Swimbaits Plastic Lure

JOHNCOO

Based on 396 reviews Check latest price
  • 1.Length:100mm/3.94in; Weight: 5.4g/0.19oz; Quantity: 5pcs/bag, 10pcs/pack
  • 2.Special rainbow paper inner body can reflect the light from all directions, better to attract target fish.
  • 3.3D eyes and the lifelike bait body make your fishing much easier.
  • 4.T-tail makes the soft lure swim naturally with twitches and short hops.
  • 5.Eco-friendly high quality soft plastic with good palatability, tastes like an actual fish, more attractive to the game fish.

User questions & answers

Question: How do you rig these things? That fabric inside makes it almost impossible to do a standard Texas rig
Answer: Dear customer, Thank you for asking.Our tennis shoes with removable memory foam insole, soft and comfortable. They support your feet ,these air cushion provide support and cushioning,and are good for walking and running. Anything else we can help, please kindly let us know Best regards NewNaisu Customer Service
Question: How many do you get per bag
Answer: Dear customer, Thank you for asking about the size of air cushion shoes.The foot length of the size 7.5 is 9.64 inches. If you need to know other sizes, you can refer to the size chart on the product page, it is ture. Looking forward to your purchase. Anything else we can help, please kindly let us know Best regards NewNaisu Customer Service
Question: Does it work for drop shot
Answer: They to size I ordered a 9.5 which is wide and to big I could have just ordered a nine
Question: How do you rig these things? The fabric in the middle makes it pretty much impossible for me to use a standard Texas rig
Answer: Narrow. They would have been perfect for me in a half size bigger. I returned them.

Product features

Making Every Lure Special is the lasting faith of JOHNCOO and we also hope JOHNCOO will be the indivisible part of your fishing life!
Length & Weight & Quantity:

  • 70mm/2.76in, 2.1g/0.07oz, 6pcs/bag, 24pcs/pack

  • 100mm/3.94in, 5.4g/0.19oz, 5pcs/bag, 10pcs/pack

  • 128mm/5.04in, 9.7g/0.34oz, 4pcs/bag, 8pcs/pack

Rapala Shad Rap 05 Fishing Lures

Rapala

Based on 182 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The world's best running hardbait, hand-tuned and tank-tested at the factory. The Shad Rap closely resembles many baitfish throughout the world with one exception, the legendary wounded minnow action of Rapala lures. Excellent for casting or trolling, the Shad Rap is designed to be fished at ultra slow speeds to super fast speeds.

  • The world's best running hardbait, hand-tuned and tank-tested at the factory.
  • Balsa Wood Construction
  • Natural Baitfish Profile
  • legendary wounded minnow action of Rapala lure
  • Excellent for casting or trolling, the Shad Rap is designed to be fished at ultra slow speeds to super fast speeds.

User questions & answers

Question: Hi, Floats?Difference between this and shallow? Will jump off obstacles? Certainly dont want to get it stuck in rocks
Answer: I use them on jigs. They are a little softer then some other plastics so the fish can tear them up kinda quick. But they only get torn up because the fish are hitting them so often.
Question: do you have dive chart for shads
Answer: You get 6 baits per package
Question: is this lure good for steelhead
Answer: Yes
Question: Hello. How long is this crank bait? Is this medium diving? Does it have BBs inside? Thanks
Answer: I've only used one this fall. The material makes it impossible to reuse, or 're adjust the hook in the lure. Haven't had any luck on one. Best way I'd rig these is with a 1/0 worm hook and fish it weightless. They will rig up good on a jig head too

Rapala Rattlin 05 Fishing Lures

Rapala

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Great action at slow to very fast retrieve rates.
  • Sinking
  • Long-Casting
  • Balanced Design
  • Special "tuned" sound chamber is loaded with rattlin' BBs

User questions & answers

Question: Some ratting lures have gotten way too loud in my opinion. You can hear them coming 30 ft away. How loud is this one
Answer: It floats and runs in shallow range. It will bump off rocks and things but not as well as a square bill. I Use this more in open water for trolling.
Question: hello
Answer: 6-8 feet
Question: let me know the weight & size of Rapala Rattlin 05 Fishing Lures
Answer: I believe it would work for Steelhead. You may want to try something a bit heavier if you are fishing in heavy current. This lure is very light.
Question: How many do you get
Answer: The bait is about 3 inches long, including the bill and is medium diving. It does NOT have BBs inside. The #5 is small. The bigger the number shad rap, the bigger the size and the deeper the dive.

Fluke-Fishing-Lures-Jerk-Shad- Bait Soft Plastic Swimbait for Bass Fishing Pack of 25-30

XFISHMAN

Based on 102 reviews Check latest price
  • CLASSIC BASS FISHING SOFT PLASTIC --A fluke is really a great year-round bait and catches fish in all seasons. It can be fished fast or slow depending on the time of year and the different baitfish in a certain fishery.
  • BIG BASS CAN’T RESIST--XFISHMAN Fluke baits are long, narrow plastic bass lures with a soft, rubbery feel. They're designed to look like baitfish -- silvery-blue shad or bluegill minnows -- that are a favorite snack of big bass.
  • XFISHMAN’S UNIQUE DESIGN--XFISHMAN Fluke baits works well because of its supernatural color and size. This bait’s unique profile and Slope 45 degree flow trough promote an erratic darting motion.Plus, a very subtle tail swimming action on the fall which is similar to a Senko. give them to try on your next outing; you’ll be glad you did.
  • SIMPLE TO USE--The XFISHMAN fluke, it simply gets the job done. An angler casts the lure a short distance and lets it slowly sink for a few seconds. With a light jerk of the line, the fisherman yanks the fluke back up to the surface, where it swims with a realistic wiggle before slowly sinking again. Predators can't resist this!
  • MUST HAVE FOR ANY FISHERMAN -- Great for catching a variety of predator fish,easy to use for anglers of all levels of experience, No tackle box would be complete without one of the most classic fluke bait out there.

Product features

Fluke Fishing Lures
XFISHMAN’S UNIQUE DESIGN

XFISHMAN Fluke baits works well because of its supernatural color and size. This bait’s unique profile and Slope 45 degree flow trough promote an erratic darting motion.Plus, a very subtle tail swimming action on the fall which is similar to a Senko. give them to try on your next outing; you’ll be glad you did.

BIG BASS CAN’T RESIST

XFISHMAN Fluke baits are long, narrow plastic bass lures with a soft, rubbery feel. They're designed to look like baitfish -- silvery-blue shad or bluegill minnows -- that are a favorite snack of big bass.

SIMPLE TO USE

The XFISHMAN fluke, it simply gets the job done. An angler casts the lure a short distance and lets it slowly sink for a few seconds. With a light jerk of the line, the fisherman yanks the fluke back up to the surface, where it swims with a realistic wiggle before slowly sinking again. Predators can't resist this!

MUST HAVE FOR ANY FISHERMAN

Great for catching a variety of predator fish,easy to use for anglers of all levels of experience, No tackle box would be complete without one of the most classic fluke bait out there.

CLASSIC BASS FISHING SOFT PLASTIC

A fluke is really a great year-round bait and catches fish in all seasons. It can be fished fast or slow depending on the time of year and the different baitfish in a certain fishery.

GREAT YEAR-ROUND BAIT

  • Classic bass fishing soft plastic.
  • Most popular soft jerkbait ever produced
  • Realistic baitfish profile with split-tail action
  • Casts longer and sinks slightly faster
  • Versatile; can be fished many ways
  • Super-soft, yet durable
  • Salt-impregnated to hold the bite
  • Classic 4"& 5" size fits most waters and conditions

JOHNCOO Fishing Lure Lifelike 3D Eyes Silicone Shad Soft Wrom Minnow Swimbait Bass Fishing Multiple Color Paddle Tail Baits Artificial Lures

JOHNCOO

Based on 149 reviews Check latest price
  • 1.Length: 80mm/3.15in; Weight: 4.5g(0.16oz)/pcs; Quantity: 5pcs/bag, 10pcs/pack
  • 2. The hook slot designed on top and in its belly, which is easier to rig and better to help bury the hook-point.
  • 3. 3D eyes and the very soft material make the baits much more flexible and lifelike when swimming in the water.
  • 4. The paddle tail makes the soft lure swim naturally with twitches and short hops.
  • 5. The special deep ribs will help the lure tail to bob along in the current to attract the nearest predator.

User questions & answers

Question: What hooks are good for this jig
Answer: the last time i bought them i bought4 in the bluegill color thats all they had i lost thee on big fish that end up snapping my line

Product features

JOHNCOO Soft Bait Artificial Lures for Bass Fishing Shad Wrom Silicone Minnow Swimbait Lifelike Multiple Color

1.Highly detail color painting, 3D eyes, supple body with round head and wiggle paddle tail make the bait more lifelike and realistic.

2.Different colors of glitter can better to reflect the light in water to attract the target fish.

3.Suitable for various kinds of fishes e.g. catfish, perch, bass, pike, trout, sea bream, red fish, walleye and so on, ideal choices for fishing enthusiasts.

4.Easy to use, just need several seconds to attach even for raw hand.

Shepard Shad 2.0 - Unbreakable Bass Fishing Lures - Solid Body Square Bill Crankbait - Natural Swim Action - Perfect for Bass with Mustad Hooks

Wow Factor Fishing

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FLW Champion Mark Shepard’s original heavy-cover square bill crankbait is back and better than ever! Mark’s unique hand-crafted solid body design with exclusive synthetic balsa technology makes Shepard Shad 2.0 the King of crankbaits! It reigns supreme as it effortlessly deflects off submerged logs and trees, navigates through thick underwater grass and weeds plus cranks through rocky terrain with zero risk of cracking or splitting. Shepard Shad 2.0 is precision-engineered to seek center which generates its unparalleled natural bait fish action that makes even the most pressured fish strike! Put this long-guarded secret of the pros in your tackle box today!

  • UNBREAKABLE - Solid, synthetic balsa body won't crack, swell or sink!
  • HEAVY-COVER FRIENDLY - Navigates through underwater grass & weeds plus deflects off of rocks, trees and stumps. Fishes where other cranks can't!
  • TRIPLE SPEED ACTION - Works at slow, medium and fast speeds.
  • HIGH QUALITY - Premium MUSTAD hooks, strong single steel through wire for strong hook ups, lifelike 3D eyes and premium paint
  • DEPTH - Designed to dive 0-4 feet.

Dr.Fish Lot 6 Soft Plastic Swimbait Fluke Tail Soft Lure Shad Wiggle Bass Fishing Lures Kit 3 inch, Multiple Color Available

Dr.Fish

Based on 470 reviews Check latest price
  • Extremely realistic lifelike lure. Highly detail color painting with holographic flash inserts and 3D eyes
  • Supple body with round head, wiggle fluke tail, salt and scent Impregnated
  • Work great for drop shot. Also ideal for weightless, weedless rig. Even the easiest rig will make it a bass magnets
  • It is the perfect meal size for bass and other general freshwater species and rock fish
  • Length: 3"; Qty: 6pcs; Material: High Quality Silicone; Color:Watermelon.

User questions & answers

Question: do you have 2"swibait minnow for crappie
Answer: I have them on a smoothly painted bathroom wall above the shower and they have stayed on solidly for over a month now.
Question: What oz jig head is applicatable
Answer: Open rug up and let sit open for a day or night .then vacuum it should conform quickly.
Question: How many inches is the size small
Answer: Hi, Please don't worry. The fluffy rug don't shed.
Question: does it come with swivels to attach to line
Answer: Yes

Storm WildEye Swim Shad 03 Fishing Lures

Storm

Based on 501 reviews Check latest price

Product description

These ultra-realistic swim shad baits feature super-soft hand-poured bodies that are so lifelike, you might be tempted to take a bite yourself. Sporting strong soft bodies with internal lead heads and bio-salt impregnated tails, an excellent holographic swimmin’ foil finish and crazy 3-D WildEye stare, these durable baits are pre-rigged with a superior VMC needle point hooks.

  • These ultra-realistic swim shad baits feature super-soft hand-poured bodies that are so lifelike, you might be tempted to take a bite yourself
  • Sporting strong soft bodies with internal lead heads and bio-salt impregnated tails
  • These durable baits are pre-rigged with a superior VMC needle point hooks. 3 per pack
  • 0.25 Oz
  • An excellent holographic swimmin’ foil finish and crazy 3-D WildEye stare

User questions & answers

Question: What color works best for winter Florida Gulf Coast and marsh fishing
Answer: Swim bait hooks
Question: wich one is best for texas bass fishing
Answer: not sure how to answer this ,, but best I can do is to say it catch's bass and have gotten a few small Northern pike in the 18-22 inch range
Question: We tried using these today and they wouldn't swim right, just sorta dragged sideways, any ideas as to why
Answer: The actual size of the body itself is 2 1/2 inches. Here's the insane (WTF) response i got from Rapala about this: Thanks for the images and your patience. Everything is as it should be. The 05 size has always been larger than what is listed on the box. It actually measures 6cm/ 2 ½’. There are a lot of older Rapala lures like that.. for example size 9 jigging rap is actually 8cm. I we don’t wish to change anything on these old lures as it will create more harm than good. People who know a size 5 RNR would be confused if we started calling at a size 6.
Question: How big are these swimbaits
Answer: 2.5 inches but the box says 2 inches.

Rapala Jointed Shallow Shad Rap 7 Fishing Lure

Rapala

Based on 370 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The slightly exaggerated rattlin' and suspending action of the Jointed Shad Rap, now with a shallow diving lip. The near the surface, struggling action perfectly imitates a baitfish in distress. Even at the slowest of speeds the jointed shad body looks and vibrates like a wounded baitfish. Multi-species appeal.

  • Wide Swimming Action
  • Shallow Running and Suspending
  • Rhythmic Rattle
  • Articulated Body
  • VMC Black Nickel Hooks

User questions & answers

Question: Where it’s made
Answer: I use the Storm 3" lures for redfish and speckled trout - they are fantastic. I catch more fish with these lures than any other. I prefer the pearl, bunker and shad colrs. But frankly, I have caught fish on just about every color they make. But the pearl is my go-to color.
Question: How long is this plug
Answer: try find a matching to the fish that in the pond, or lake, or the river, same goes with the bugs .:)
Question: How deep does this dive
Answer: Sometimes the eyes become uneven making them slant. Also, try a Palomar Knot and be sure it is centered when pulling tight.
Question: Is it supposed to work in the sea water? I bought one and tried in sea water, but it floats, so wondering if that's intended to be
Answer: 2 1/2 - 3" long work on bass, red fish and speckled trout ( spotted weakfish ).. I do a double rig two baits.

Tsunami Pro Swim Shad Holographic Swim Bait 6" SS6 Green Mackerel Lure Jig

Tsunami

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tsunami's Holographic Swim Shad Soft Baits are designed to trigger fast, hard strikes! Tough soft-vinyl body features an ultra-realistic holographic foil core and lifelike 3D eyes to bring predators in from all directions. The uniform swimming action and consistent performance satisfy anglers and fish alike. Rugged enough to stand up to toothy fish. Rigged with premium Mustad hooks.

  • Length: 6"
  • # Per Pack: 4

User questions & answers

Question: what does it weigh
Answer: It floats until you begin to retrieve it. It then dives. Use fluocarbon line for deeper needs.

SteelShad - Original Series (3/8 oz) - 3 Pack - Lipless Crankbait for Freshwater & Saltwater Fishing - Long Casting Bass Lure Perfect for Bass, Pike, Musky, Walleye, Trout, Salmon and Striper

SteelShad

Based on 166 reviews Check latest price
  • THE BEST BLADE - SteelShad Original 3/8 oz. is 2-3/4” long, made of stainless steel and arrives equipped with two #6 VMC Permasteel coated hooks and a split ring. Developed by Pro Fishermen here in the USA, the 3 PACK is a perfect addition to every anglers fishing tackle box. Each pack contains 3/8oz. Original SteelShad of the same color pattern.
  • CRANK IT. JIG IT. TROLL IT. LAND IT. - The most versatile lure available today to trigger strikes from both freshwater and saltwater fish. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, crappie, striper, pike, musky, trout, salmon and snook go crazy over them. Fish SteelShad using multiple presentations - Straight retrieve back. Troll at almost any speed. Jig through the ice and in open water. Swims frantically in 2ft or 60ft of water and everywhere in between.
  • PEFORMANCE & VERSATILITY - This high-performance lipless crankbait lure is specifically designed for wild throbbing action with minimal effort. Malleable stainless steel and multiple split ring positions offers angler ways to make the lure swim frantically shallow or deep.
  • BETTER CASTING - From the bank or the boat! Cover more water, quicker. SteelShad's weight is placed for perfect balance and wild enticing vibrating action. The Original SteelShad is a year-round staple that fishes excellent in fresh and saltwater.
  • THE PERFECT GIFT - Available in 11 color patterns, the Original SteelShad bass lure makes the perfect gift for both beginner and experienced anglers.

User questions & answers

Question: I'm looking for a gift for my dad. would this work to catch fish in galveston? in the bay and such
Answer: 3/8ths internal plus body weight just over 1/2 oz total very effective right now Nanticoke river shallow water trolling or casting bank as well as channel markers Chesapeake Bay Larger version 2 oz I believe 9 inch use in deeper water or surf
Question: Bend the lure for shallow water action . . ." Does this mean that the fisherman physically bends the lure? And what purpose does that serve
Answer: Designed in Finland Assembled in Estonia
Question: how much do they weigh
Answer: Approx 3in and it’s my go to lure for trout been really successful with this lure and e we oils never leave without one in the box also deeper diving ones are very successful shallow rap for summer deeper ones for early and later in the year
Question: Are there different weights, or all lures 3/8 oz
Answer: 2-4 feet rod tip up 2 ft rodtip diwn 3-4 ft

Product features

The Original SteelShad

The SteelShad looks like a blade bait but fishes like a lipless crankbait.

Our bass lure has a perfect vibration that attracts fish.

You can cast and crank the Steel Shad just like a lipless crankbait or a swimbait.

Hang on for the Strike!

Fish All Waters & All Depths

Our all purpose fishing lure work in both shallow and deep water in both freshwater and saltwater.

You can cast and crank the SteelShad for shallow water action and you will feel the lure vibrating the rod as you crank it in. Just bend the lure for shallow water action or a custom wiggle.

You can also jig the SteelShad for deep or suspending fish and they will bit it. Just keep the lure straight for amazing deep water action.

Built to Last

All SteelShad lures feature our prorietary stainless steel blade with coated VMC Hooks. These long lasting lures will not corrode in your tackle box whether you fish salt water or fresh water.

Long Casting

Perfectly balanced, the SteelShad bass lure is designed for longer, more accurate casts. The thin profile of our lure cuts through wind and extends your cast. Make sure you are always on target with the best casting bass lure available.

Versatility

SteelShad is know for any depth and any fish and any season. Steel Shad catches a wide variety of game fish including: Bass, Walleye, Trout, Salmon, Musky, Pike and Striper.

The Perfect Gift

Available in 4 sizes Mini, Original, XL and XXL, the SteelShad is great for all ages. SteelShad makes the perfect gift for birthdays, fathers day or Christmas. Every angler should have one in their tackle box.

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