WikiCatch
Freshwater drum
Aplodinotus grunniens
Overview
The freshwater drum, Aplodinotus grunniens, is a fish endemic to North and Central America. It is the only species in the genus Aplodinotus, and is a member of the family Sciaenidae. It is the only North American member of the group that inhabits freshwater for its entire life. Its generic name, Aplodinotus, comes from Greek meaning "single back", and the specific epithet, grunniens, comes from a Latin word meaning "grunting". It is given to it because of the grunting noise that mature males make. This noise comes from a special set of muscles within the body cavity that vibrate against the swim bladder. The purpose of the grunting is unknown, but due to it being present in only mature males and during the spawning season, it is assumed to be linked to spawning.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Nightcrawlers
Effective on a simple hook and weight rig.
- Crayfish
Excellent bait near rocky bottoms.
- Minnows
Use live minnows on a jig head.
- Leeches
Effective drifted or fished under a bobber.
- Freshwater Shrimp
Good for bottom fishing in rivers.
Artificial Lures
- Strike King Red Eye ShadLipless CrankbaitBuy
Vary retrieve speed to find what works.
- Berkley PowerBait Power WormSoft PlasticBuy
Texas or Carolina rig works well.
- Lindy Fuzz-E-GrubJigBuy
Great for vertical jigging.
- Blue Fox VibraxSpinnerBuy
Silver or gold blades are effective.
- Daredevle SpoonSpoonBuy
Erratic retrieve can trigger strikes.
Techniques
Freshwater drum often feed near the bottom, so present your bait or lure accordingly, and be patient as they are not known for aggressive strikes.
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Where to Find Freshwater drum
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Freshwater drum?+
Popular baits for Freshwater drum include Nightcrawlers, Crayfish, Minnows, Leeches, Freshwater Shrimp. Tip: Freshwater drum often feed near the bottom, so present your bait or lure accordingly, and be patient as they are not known for aggressive strikes.
Where can I catch Freshwater drum?+
Freshwater drum can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Texas, United States; Alabama, United States; Louisiana, United States. WikiCatch lists 3718 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Freshwater drum get?+
Freshwater drum (Aplodinotus grunniens) can reach up to 94.9999988079071 cm in length and 24.7 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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