Where can I catch Shad in Stardew Valley?

Shad can be caught at River. Found in rivers during spring, summer, and fall. Requires rain.

What season is Shad available?

Shad is available during Spring and Summer and Fall from 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM. It requires rainy weather.

How much does Shad sell for?

Shad has a base sell price of 60g. With the Angler profession (+25%), it sells for 75g. Silver quality sells for 75g, Gold for 90g, and Iridium for 120g.

How hard is it to catch Shad?

Shad has a difficulty rating of 45, relatively easy to catch. It has Smooth behavior. Requires rainy weather but available across three seasons. Good for rainy day fishing sessions.

Shad

A river fish that runs upstream during certain seasons. Known for its annual spawning migrations.

Spring Summer Fall Easy (45)Rainy

Base Price

60g

Where & When to Find Shad

Location

River

Found in rivers during spring, summer, and fall. Requires rain.

Time & Conditions

9:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Rainy weather required

Difficulty & Catching Strategy

Difficulty: 45

Easy

Good for building fishing XP

EasyHardLegend (110)

Smooth Behavior

Gradual, predictable movements. The fish moves steadily in one direction before changing.

Tip: Follow the fish smoothly. Anticipate direction changes and move gradually.

Expert Tips for Shad

Requires rainy weather but available across three seasons. Good for rainy day fishing sessions.

Recommended Tackle

Spinner

Faster bite rate

Best for: Farming XP quickly

Barbed Hook

Clinging to fish

Best for: Smooth/mixed behavior fish

Tackle requires an Iridium Rod. Purchase from Willy's shop at Fishing Level 6.

Sell Prices by Quality

Angler: Inactive

Quality	Price	Multiplier
Normal	60g	1.0x
Silver	75g	1.25x
Gold	90g	1.5x
Iridium	120g	2.0x

Uses for Shad

Sashimi
Fish pond
Rain-dependent catch

Did You Know?

American shad were once so abundant they were a crucial food source for early colonists.