Silver Redhorse
The Silver Redhorse (Moxostoma anisurum) is one of the longest-lived redhorse species, with a maximum reported age of 41 years.
In Georgia, they occur from the Great Lakes region south to southern Georgia, extending all the way to the coast unlike other redhorse species. These fish are excellent indicators of water quality as they cannot tolerate murky or polluted waters.
Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum
- Distinguished by their silver sides, dark gray-brown back, and slate gray tail with a large, moderately forked caudal fin.
- They typically weigh 2-5 pounds and measure 18-24 inches, though they can reach up to 10 pounds and 30 inches.
- Bottom feeders with inferior mouth positions.
Fishing in Georgia
Ocmulgee River
Lake Sinclair
Flint River
Oconee River
Lake Tobesofkee
Lake Wildwood
Houston Lake
Housers Millpond
Rocky Creek
High Falls Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Medium to large rivers as well as deep ponds and lakes with sand substrates throughout Georgia, extending all the way to the coast unlike other redhorse species.
Key Locations
- Hiwassee River system near Young Harris, Georgia.
Specific Spots
- Around undercut banks, protruding tree roots, rocks, drop-offs, and deep pools with minimal current.
- Areas with sand substrates.
Silver Redhorse FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Silver Redhorse in Georgia?
Bread or dough balls, nightcrawlers, pieces of nightcrawler, small crayfish, cut bait, minnows, jigs that sink to the bottom, and bottom-running rigs with small circle hooks.
What flies work for Silver Redhorse in Georgia?
Small flies (particularly size 10-12 black nymphs, beaded woolly buggers, clouser minnows, and yarn e.g.gs).
When is the best time to fish for Silver Redhorse in Georgia?
Most productive outside of their spawning period (avoid April-May when water temperatures reach 53°F).
How do you catch Silver Redhorse in Georgia?
Dr.ift fishing, bait casting, spin casting, still fishing, and bottom fishing with split shot rigs that slowly bounce along the current. Watch for line hesitations when drift fishing, as Silver Redhorse strikes can be subtle.
What do Silver Redhorse eat?
Consume mollusks, algae, detritus, immature insects, and other small invertebrates.
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