BackCountry Fishing Gizzard Shad Gar MTSix

Shared Trip - End Trip Reminders

Looking for a no-frills fishing trip that puts you right in the action? This shared backcountry adventure is designed for anglers who want to test their skills against some seriously underrated fighters. With space for just one guest, you'll get personalized attention while targeting two species that'll surprise you with their power and attitude. Don't let the intimate group size fool you – this trip packs a punch when it comes to rod-bending action and learning opportunities you won't find on crowded charter boats.

What to Expect on the Water

This is backcountry fishing at its core – just you, your guide, and some of the most overlooked yet rewarding species swimming in these waters. The single-guest format means you're not competing for prime fishing spots or waiting your turn to cast. Your guide can focus entirely on putting you on fish and teaching techniques that work specifically for American Gizzard Shad and Alligator Gar. The day starts early, and you'll be working structure, current breaks, and shallow flats where these species love to hang out. Expect to move around quite a bit as we follow the bite – backcountry fishing is all about adapting to what the fish are telling us. You'll be using a mix of live bait and artificials, depending on conditions and what's working that day.

Gear & Techniques

We're talking medium to heavy action rods paired with reels that can handle sudden runs and powerful headshakes. For gizzard shad, you'll learn the art of reading schools and timing your presentation just right – these fish can be finicky but incredibly rewarding when you crack the code. Alligator gar require a completely different approach with wire leaders and serious drag settings. Your guide will have you switching between techniques like sight fishing in shallow water and bottom fishing in deeper holes. The gear is provided, but if you've got your own setup, bring it along – guides love working with anglers who are serious about their equipment. Circle hooks are the name of the game for gar, while smaller trebles work well for shad when they're schooling tight.

Top Catches This Season

American Gizzard Shad might not get the respect they deserve, but these silver bullets will test your reflexes and teach you plenty about reading water. They school up in massive numbers during certain times of year, creating some of the most exciting sight fishing you'll experience. These fish hit hard and fast, often jumping clear out of the water when hooked. Most shad you'll encounter range from 12 to 20 inches, but don't let their size fool you – they fight with the intensity of fish twice their weight. Spring and early summer are prime time when they move into shallow areas to spawn, making them accessible to light tackle anglers. What makes them special is their willingness to hit artificials when other species go quiet, and they're excellent practice for honing your hookset timing.

Alligator Gar are the real showstoppers on this trip – prehistoric predators that can grow well over six feet and live for decades. These living dinosaurs are ambush hunters with bone-crushing jaws filled with needle-sharp teeth. When you hook into a mature gar, you're in for a battle that combines raw power with surprising agility. They're known for their aerial displays, rolling and thrashing at the surface in ways that'll get your heart pumping. Summer months are ideal for targeting gar when they move into shallow areas and become more active feeders. The best part about gar fishing is the visual element – you can often see them cruising just under the surface, which turns the whole experience into an exciting game of cat and mouse. Landing one of these ancient fighters is something every serious angler needs to experience at least once.

Time to Book Your Spot

This shared trip format offers incredible value for anglers who want a top-rated backcountry experience without the full cost of a private charter. You'll walk away with new techniques, stories worth telling, and hopefully some great photos of fish that most people never get to target. The single-guest setup means you're getting almost private guide attention while learning about species that are becoming increasingly popular among in-the-know anglers. Whether you're looking to add new species to your list or just want to experience a different style of fishing, this trip delivers the kind of authentic backcountry adventure that keeps people coming back. Book now and get ready to discover why gizzard shad and alligator gar are quickly becoming customer favorites among serious anglers.