FWC Makes American Shad Catch-and-Release Only in Florida Reading Time: 2 minutes

American Shad anglers, brace for the major changes! At its August 2026 meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) moved forward with a rule that will make American Shad catch-and-release only in Florida.

An American Shad poking through the water after beign caught by a fishing line

The change would end recreational and commercial harvest of the species, with Florida’s only remaining American Shad population found in the St. Johns River system.

What Changed

Under the previous regulations, American Shad were included in a 10-fish aggregate bag limit with Alabama Shad and Hickory Shad. The new rule removes American Shad from that limit and prohibits their harvest.

Once the rule takes effect:

  • American Shad: Harvest, possession, purchase, sale, and exchange will be prohibited.
  • Alabama Shad and Hickory Shad: A 10-fish aggregate bag limit will remain in place.

The change modifies Rule 68B-52.004, Florida Administrative Code, and applies to both recreational and commercial harvest.

Why FWC Made the Change

FWC’s decision follows a long-term decline in American Shad abundance in the St. Johns River. The population has remained below the management threshold established under Florida’s Sustainable Fishing Plan for the St. Johns River System for nine consecutive years.

Fishing pressure is already relatively low. FWC reported no documented commercial landings of American Shad in Florida for 26 years, while documented recreational landings have remained below 100 fish per year in recent years.

Florida also coordinates American Shad management with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, which manages the species throughout its range along the Atlantic coast.

What Anglers Should Know

The practical impact on most anglers should be limited, because catch-and-release is already common among those targeting American Shad in Florida. FWC also reported broad stakeholder support for making the fishery catch-and-release only.

An aerial view of the St. Johns River in Florida as it bends almost 180 degrees on a clear day

In Florida, American Shad return from the ocean to spawn primarily between late December and early April. The sport fishery is concentrated on the St. Johns River between Sanford and Melbourne. This is where anglers commonly target them with light spinning tackle and flies.

Anglers will still be able to fish for American Shad once the rule takes effect, but every fish will have to be released. Alabama Shad and Hickory Shad will remain available for harvest under their combined 10-fish daily bag limit.

The change is specific to Florida and does not affect American Shad regulations elsewhere. On the Delaware River and Estuary, for example, Pennsylvania currently allows anglers to keep two American Shad per day.

What do you think about the new American Shad regulations in Florida? Do you already practice catch and release for American Shad in Florida? Hit the comment button below and share your thoughts with us.


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