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Black Redhorse

Black Redhorse

Black Redhorse is a native sucker species in Indiana that serves as important forage for larger predators like smallmouth bass, flathead catfish, and northern pike in Indiana's waters.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma duquesnei

Physical Characteristics:
  • Averaging 10 inches in length, characterized by a long, slender body with dark olive green back, golden to brassy sides, and distinctive slate-colored caudal and dorsal fins with orange to reddish-orange lower fins.
  • The species has no dark spots on its scales, distinguishing it from other redhorse species.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout the state's river systems.
  • They prefer clear rivers and medium-sized streams with gravelly riffles, permanent pools, and clean coarse substrates of gravel and cobble, rarely associating with aquatic vegetation.

Key Locations

  • Wabash River, White River, St.
  • Joseph River, Sugar Creek, Patoka River drainage, and various tributaries in counties like Carroll, Tippecanoe, Jackson, Franklin, Monroe, Parke, and others.
  • Wabash River system, White River drainage, Sugar Creek, St.
  • Joseph River, and their tributaries.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on clear rivers and medium-sized streams with gravelly riffles and adjacent pools.
  • Fish near riffles and pool margins where they typically feed in moderate to fast-flowing areas with clean gravel, cobble, or sand substrates.

Black Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

When is the best time to fish for Black Redhorse in Indiana?

Spring through fall, with the most productive period being late spring after spawning (July-August) through early fall. They spawn from May through June when water temperatures reach 54-70°F - this period should be avoided for fishing to protect spawning populations.

How do you catch Black Redhorse in Indiana?

Wade downstream in clear water and cast upstream of visible fish, using current and line tension to swing bait toward them. Position bait about a foot in front of the fish and wait - you'll see their nose twitch as they locate the scent.

What do Black Redhorse eat?

Black Redhorse are benthic feeders that consume insects, small mollusks, crustaceans, and invertebrates, actively rooting them out from rocks and substrate rather than waiting for drifting food.

Where do Black Redhorse live in Indiana?

Found throughout the state's river systems. They prefer clear rivers and medium-sized streams with gravelly riffles, permanent pools, and clean coarse substrates of gravel and cobble, rarely associating with aquatic vegetation.

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