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Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum are a non-native species in Colorado, first introduced in the 1950s as a sport fish and later accidentally stocked in some waters.

They're the only North American freshwater member of the drum family (Sciaenidae), which includes marine species like red drum and croakers.

Scientific Name: Aplodinotus grunniens

Physical Characteristics:
  • These deep-bodied, silvery fish are distinguished by their laterally compressed body, long notched dorsal fin, subterminal mouth, and unique lateral line that extends into the rounded tail fin.
  • Colorado's state record is just over 17 pounds, though they can grow much larger elsewhere, with the world record exceeding 50 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit depths of 40-60 feet in medium to large lakes and reservoirs, preferring clear water but tolerating turbid conditions.

Key Locations

  • Reproducing populations exist in reservoirs including Jumbo, Jumbo Annex, Prewitt, North Sterling, Jackson, and Adobe Creek reservoirs, primarily in the South Platte and Arkansas River drainages.
  • Jackson Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for targeting drum along with carp, while Adobe Creek Reservoir has good populations accessible to both boat and shore anglers (though boat fishing is more productive).

Specific Spots

  • Focus on water depth using fish finders to locate schools, look for structure and drop-offs, find baitfish concentrations, and fish areas with strong current for larger specimens.

Freshwater Drum FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawlers (extremely effective when bottom-bounced), crayfish (crawdads), freshwater shrimp, shiners, cut bait, shad, crickets.

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

Summer months (June-July provide the most outstanding success). They spawn in open water during May and June when water temperatures reach 64-79°F, during which time they should not be targeted.

How do you catch Freshwater Drum in Colorado?

Bottom fishing is the most effective method, as drum typically inhabit 40-60 foot depths and feed on the bottom by rooting through substrate. Bobber fishing also produces well. Cast bladebaits upstream to reach bottom, then slowly raise your rod tip while maintaining contact with the substrate.

What do Freshwater Drum eat?

Their diet consists primarily of crayfish, aquatic insects, mollusks, small fish like shad, and they're one of the few native fish capable of consuming invasive zebra mussels.

Where do Freshwater Drum live in Colorado?

They inhabit depths of 40-60 feet in medium to large lakes and reservoirs, preferring clear water but tolerating turbid conditions.

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Colorado licenses and regulations

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