Description

A shad trace is a fishing rig designed to be used when targeting shad, a popular sport fish in South Africa. It typically consists of a hook, a swivel, and a length of wire or strong fishing line, sometimes including a float and a sinker. The trace is used to hold the bait in place and allow the angler to cast and retrieve the lure effectively.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Basic Components:
Hook: A needle-point hook, typically size 3.0 to 5.0, is used to secure the bait.
Swivel: A barrel swivel (or sometimes a 3-way swivel) is used to connect the hook to the main line.
Wire or Strong Line: This is the “trace” itself, connecting the hook and swivel.
Optional Float: A cork float can be added to help suspend the bait in the water column.
Optional Sinker: A small running sinker can be used to help the bait sink to the desired depth.
Types of Shad Traces:
Basic Shad Trace: This is a simple rig with just a hook, swivel, and wire or line.
Bottom Shad Trace: Incorporates a float above the hook, making it suitable for fishing near the bottom.
Drift Shad Trace: Uses a sinker threaded onto the line above the hook trace, allowing the rig to drift with the current.
Materials:
Trace Line/Nylon: 0.40mm or 0.50mm in diameter is recommended.
Steel Wire/Piano Wire: Used for creating the hook trace.
Swivels: Various types of swivels are used to connect different parts of the rig.
Hooks: Needle-point hooks are preferred for their sharp points.
Sinker: 3 or 4-ounce sinkers can be used to add weight to the rig.
Purpose:
Presenting Bait:
The trace helps to present the bait to the fish in a natural way, allowing the shad to readily take the hook.
Distance Casting:
The trace allows anglers to cast the bait further, especially when shad are feeding in deeper water or further from the shoreline.
Bait Retention:
The trace helps to keep the bait in place, preventing it from being ripped off by the shad’s powerful jaws.