mArk,
This spring is your best option. I normally let the bluegill establish then the next year stock the shad. My stocking plan in GA is fall-March bluegill/redear/fathead, then in spring bass then following spring threadfin shad. Some folks have started stokcing the shad prior to the bass and have had good bluegill and bass. I may try that out on my "impatient" clients.
You are timing it just right in my opinion to stock this spring. THis way you should not yet have a bass crowded situation thus better chance of shad establishment. I have a source in north AL that has some great shad, so let me know if you can;t find a good source.
