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River Redhorse

River Redhorse

River Redhorse are a state-threatened native species in Illinois, representing one of the largest members of the sucker family.

These bottom-dwelling fish require pristine water conditions in deeper medium-sized rivers with fast flow and riffle areas, making them excellent indicators of water quality. They're intolerant of silt, turbidity, and pollution.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma carinatum

Physical Characteristics:
  • Reaching lengths of 10-27 inches and weights exceeding 10 pounds.
  • They're distinguished by their green-brown backs, yellow sides, white bellies, distinctive red tail fin, and large head with a U-shaped lower lip.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in deeper medium-sized rivers with fast flow and riffle areas.
  • Bottom-dwelling fish that require pristine water conditions.

Key Locations

  • The Kankakee River contains Illinois' largest population and offers the best opportunities in Illinois.
  • They've historically been found in the Iroquois, Vermilion (Wabash), Fox, Illinois, Vermilion (Illinois), Mazon, Kaskaskia, and Rock river basins.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper medium-sized rivers with moderate to swift currents, clean gravel or cobble substrates, and riffle areas.
  • During spawning, concentrate in shallow gravel beds.

River Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for River Redhorse in Illinois?

Size 10-12 black nymphs, small beaded woolly buggers, clouser minnows, yarn e.g.gs, and clam-imitating patterns.

When is the best time to fish for River Redhorse in Illinois?

Best during their spawning period from mid-May through June when water temperatures reach 68-74°F. Focus on pre-spawn feeding periods when they're actively foraging but not yet on nests.

How do you catch River Redhorse in Illinois?

Bottom-fishing techniques work best using split shot rigs or bottom-bouncing rigs. For fly fishing, watch for line hesitations when drifting flies, as bites can be subtle. Sight fishing with stealth approaches during spawning concentrations.

What do River Redhorse eat?

River Redhorse are specialized feeders with enlarged molar-like throat teeth designed for crushing mollusk shells - their diet consists primarily of mollusks, snails, and aquatic insects, with mollusks comprising a higher percentage of their diet than any other sucker species.

Where do River Redhorse live in Illinois?

Found in deeper medium-sized rivers with fast flow and riffle areas. Bottom-dwelling fish that require pristine water conditions.

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