Night Bait Run - Fresh Shad for Texas Anglers
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Guided night baitcatching trip fills coolers with fresh shadLicensed dealer provides all gear and cast net instructionLake fishing preparation with quality live bait collection
Forget spending your hard-earned money on expensive live bait at the marina. This guided night bait run puts you in control of your own fresh shad supply while teaching you skills that'll pay dividends for years to come. As a licensed bait dealer and Texas Parks & Wildlife registered guide, I'll show you the ropes of cast netting and get your cooler packed with premium live bait. Whether you're prepping for a weekend bass tournament or just want to learn proper bait-catching techniques, this one-on-one session delivers results. We're talking fresh shad of all sizes - from finger-sized threadfins perfect for crappie to chunky gizzards that big bass can't resist.
This isn't your typical fishing trip - we're going after the bait that makes great fishing possible. Night runs are when shad get active and school up in predictable patterns, making them easier to target with cast nets. I provide all the netting gear and know exactly where to find the best concentrations based on water temperature, moon phases, and seasonal movements. You'll bring a cooler with plenty of ice, plus any snacks and drinks you want for the evening. This is a hands-on learning experience where you'll practice throwing techniques, learn to read the water, and understand shad behavior patterns. By the end of the night, you'll have both a cooler full of fresh bait and the confidence to catch your own on future trips. Since we're working with a single guest capacity, you get my full attention and personalized instruction tailored to your skill level.
Cast netting is part art, part science, and I'll break down both aspects so you can master this essential skill. We use different net sizes depending on the shad we're targeting and the depth we're working. Smaller mesh nets work better for threadfin shad, while larger mesh handles gizzard shad without tangling as much. Timing is everything on these night runs - shad move into shallow areas to feed as the sun goes down, creating prime netting opportunities. I'll show you how to read surface activity, identify feeding schools, and position yourself for the best throws. The technique itself involves proper hand positioning, smooth rotation, and understanding how current and wind affect your cast. Most beginners struggle with consistency at first, but with focused one-on-one instruction, you'll be making productive throws before we head back to the dock. We'll also cover proper bait handling and aeration techniques to keep your catch healthy and lively.
Shad are the backbone of freshwater fishing success across Texas, and understanding their behavior makes all the difference in your angling results. Threadfin shad typically run 2-4 inches and are absolute dynamite for crappie, white bass, and smaller stripers. They school heavily in spring and fall, moving into creek arms and shallow bays where cast netting becomes highly effective. These silver bullets are incredibly active and trigger aggressive strikes from predator fish. Gizzard shad grow much larger, often reaching 8-12 inches, making them perfect for targeting trophy bass, big stripers, and catfish. They're hardier than threadfins and can handle more aggressive fishing techniques. Both species become most active during low-light conditions, which is exactly why our night runs produce such consistent results. Texas lakes see peak shad activity from late spring through early fall, with the best cast netting opportunities happening during new moon phases when darkness provides better cover for our approach.
Smart anglers know that quality live bait makes the difference between a good day and a great day on the water. This top-rated bait run gives you both immediate results and long-term skills that'll improve every future fishing trip. You'll walk away with a cooler full of fresh shad and the knowledge to catch your own whenever you need them. If you're serious about stepping up your bait game or even interested in the commercial side of bait dealing, I can point you toward the proper licensing requirements. Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're committed to the date when you book. With single guest capacity, these spots fill up fast during peak seasons. Ready to take control of your bait situation and learn from a licensed professional? Let's get you scheduled for a productive night on the water with Lead Slingers Outdoor Fishing Guide.
This fully rigged motorboat is your ticket to productive night bait runs on Texas waters. Equipped with a quiet wireless trolling motor that won't spook the shad, plus a fish finder to locate the best schools. The GPS keeps you on target while radar helps navigate safely in low light conditions. VHF radio ensures you stay connected, and the onboard multimedia system keeps things comfortable during longer trips. Perfect for learning cast net techniques or stocking up on fresh bait for your next fishing adventure. The boat handles well in lake conditions and gives you the mobility to chase active shad wherever they're schooling after dark.
Lake Ray Hubbard