Freshwater Drum
Aplodinotus grunniens
Freshwater Drum (Aplodinotus grunniens) is a large North American sciaenid found in rivers, reservoirs, and big lakes. It is named for the croaking or drumming sound it makes and is one of the most widespread freshwater gamefish in the Mississippi, Great Lakes, and Ohio drainages.
Identification points
- Deep, laterally compressed silvery body with a high arched back
- Long dorsal fin with a deep notch between spiny and soft sections
- Rounded tail and a small subterminal mouth with no chin barbel
Habitat
Deep channels, river bends, tailraces, reservoirs, and large lakes with sand, gravel, or muddy bottoms; often near current breaks and drop-offs.
Bait notes
Nightcrawlers, cut bait, crayfish, minnows, and small soft plastics all catch them. In rivers, live bait or fresh-cut bait fished on bottom is especially effective; in lakes, jigging worms or baitfish imitations near bottom works well.
Behavior
Bottom-oriented omnivore/predator that feeds on aquatic insect larvae, crayfish, mussels, and small fish. Most active at dusk, night, and during low-light periods, often roving in schools near structure or current seams.
Caution
Contains many small bones and larger specimens may accumulate contaminants like other long-lived freshwater fish; follow local consumption advisories.
Fishing notes
Fish near bottom with enough weight to hold in current, using slip sinker, Carolina, or three-way rigs. Slow drifts along channel edges, riprap, and wing dams are productive; set the hook firmly because bites can feel like taps or weight. They are usually incidental rather than a primary target.