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Golden Redhorse

Golden Redhorse

The Golden Redhorse is a native freshwater sucker species found throughout Indiana's river systems, streams, and lakes.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma erythrurum

Physical Characteristics:
  • These distinctive fish are easily identified by their golden scales along the sides, olive-colored backs, white bellies, and slate gray tail fins.
  • They typically measure 12-18 inches and weigh 1-2 pounds, though specimens can reach up to 26 inches and 4-5 pounds.
  • Golden Redhorse have fusiform bodies that allow them to swim effectively against currents, with inferior-positioned mouths perfect for bottom feeding.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Indiana's river systems, streams, and lakes.
  • They inhabit varied water bodies and thrive in flowing waters with sandy or silty substrates.

Key Locations

  • Wabash River system (where the 2024 state Fish of the Year winner was caught), St.
  • Joseph River, Elkhart River, and numerous tributaries throughout both northern and southern regions.
  • The state record Golden Redhorse was caught from the Wabash River in Tippecanoe County.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on calm pools with sandy or silty bottoms and areas with varied substrates.
  • Target productive catfish waters.

Golden Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Most productive during early spring when water temperatures reach around 42°F, well before their spawning period. During spawning period (typically April-May when water temperatures reach 63-72°F), avoid targeting them as they focus on reproduction rather than feeding.

How do you catch Golden Redhorse in Indiana?

Bottom fishing is the primary technique. Fish several inches off the stream bottom. For alternative methods, try gigging at night using a multi-headed spear with a mounted light on your boat. Can also be collected legally through netting methods including seines, cast nets, and minnow traps.

What do Golden Redhorse eat?

As bottom feeders, they consume small mollusks, detritus, algae, aquatic insects, and microcrustaceans using their protrusible mouths to suck food from stream beds.

Where do Golden Redhorse live in Indiana?

Found throughout Indiana's river systems, streams, and lakes. They inhabit varied water bodies and thrive in flowing waters with sandy or silty substrates.

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