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Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum are Arkansas's most widely distributed native gamefish, found throughout the state. These deep-bodied, silvery fish with distinctive humpbacked profiles are the only North American drum species living entirely in freshwater.

They are known for their excellent fighting ability.

Scientific Name: Aplodinotus grunniens

Also known as gaspergou, grunter, sheepshead

Physical Characteristics:
  • Deep-bodied, silvery fish with distinctive humpbacked profiles.
  • Adults average 5-15 pounds but can exceed 40 pounds - Arkansas's state record is 45 pounds, 7 ounces from Lake Wilson.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout the state in larger lakes and rivers.

Key Locations

  • Arkansas River, Mississippi River, White River, Ouachita River, Bull Shoals Lake, Table Rock Lake, Lake Ouachita, Beaver Lake, and Greers Ferry Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper areas of rivers and lakes (40-60 feet), current breaks, eddies, dropoffs, and structure near the main channels.
  • They prefer deep pools and backwaters with sluggish current.

Freshwater Drum FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Freshwater Drum in Arkansas?

Nightcrawlers are the premier bait, but crayfish tails, cooked shrimp pieces, crickets, and shiners also work well. For artificials, try small jigs (1/8-ounce pink or chartreuse), lead head jigs, deep-diving crankbaits, jigging spoons, bladebaits, gold or silver spoons (especially dimpled), and small swimbaits.

When is the best time to fish for Freshwater Drum in Arkansas?

June and July provide the most outstanding freshwater drum fishing success in Arkansas waters. In spring and fall, look for drum in slower-moving pools near fast water and rocky outcroppings. Summer fishing requires targeting deeper channels.

How do you catch Freshwater Drum in Arkansas?

Bottom fishing is the most effective method. Fish lures on or near bottom with slow retrieves. Use fish finders to locate schools in summer. Bank fishing is highly productive from shore access points below Arkansas River dams.

What do Freshwater Drum eat?

They're bottom-feeders with heavy pharyngeal teeth that crush mollusks, crayfish, aquatic insects (particularly mayflies and chironomids), small crustaceans, and small fish like shad.

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