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Silver Redhorse

Silver Redhorse

The Silver Redhorse is a freshwater sucker species with a critically imperiled conservation status (S1) in Arkansas, found primarily in the White River system. This long-lived species can reach up to 41 years old - the maximum documented age for any redhorse.

They serve as excellent water quality indicators, unable to tolerate murky or polluted waters.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically weighs 2-5 pounds, measuring 18-24 inches, though specimens up to 10 pounds and 30 inches are possible.
  • Silver Redhorse are distinguished by their silvery sides, dark gray-brown back, slate gray tail, and convex dorsal fin with 14-17 soft rays.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Arkansas, they inhabit medium to large rivers.

Key Locations

  • Medium to large Arkansas rivers, particularly the White River system.

Specific Spots

  • Deep pools with sand substrates, areas around undercut banks, and zones with protruding tree roots.
  • Target rocky areas, drop-offs, current edges, and merging currents where they feed on bottom-dwelling invertebrates and mollusks.
  • Areas with little current.

Silver Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Silver Redhorse in Arkansas?

Nightcrawlers, small pieces of nightcrawler, small crayfish, cut clam, bread or dough balls, and minnows. Jigs that sink to the bottom are effective lures, particularly when tipped with natural baits.

What flies work for Silver Redhorse in Arkansas?

Size 10-12 black nymphs, small beaded woolly buggers, clouser minnows, and patterns tied to resemble clams or mollusks.

How do you catch Silver Redhorse in Arkansas?

Dr.ift fishing, bait casting, spin casting, fly fishing, and still fishing. When fly fishing, watch the line tip carefully for hesitations indicating strikes.

What do Silver Redhorse eat?

As bottom feeders with inferior mouth positioning, they consume mollusks, algae, detritus, immature insects, and small invertebrates.

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