Silver Redhorse
The Silver Redhorse is a large, bottom-feeding freshwater fish found in Iowa's clear rivers and lakes, serving as an excellent indicator of water quality as they cannot tolerate murky or polluted waters.
Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum
- These distinctive fish have silvery sides with a dark gray-brown back and slate gray tail, featuring a deeply forked caudal fin and a single dorsal fin with 14-17 soft rays located in the middle of their back.
- Their inferior mouth position, with lips forming a deep 'V' shape, reflects their bottom-feeding nature.
- Silver Redhorse typically measure 18-24 inches and weigh 2-5 pounds, though specimens can reach up to 30 inches and 10 pounds.
Fishing in Iowa
Iowa River
South Skunk River
Lake Red Rock
Saylorville Lake
Cedar River
Des Moines River
Raccoon River
Middle River
Big Creek
Union Grove Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Widely distributed across Iowa, with confirmed populations in major river systems.
- They prefer clear waters with gravelly riffles and permanent pools, often inhabiting areas with undercut banks, protruding tree roots, and sand substrates.
Key Locations
- Wapsipinicon River (particularly from Oxford Junction to Mississippi River and Troy Mills to Oxford Junction sections), Iowa River systems, Cedar River, Des Moines River, North Raccoon River, Mississippi River pools, Prairie Park Fishery, and Mississippi River backwaters and Pool 13.
Specific Spots
- Target bottom structure including undercut banks, tree roots, rocky areas, drop-offs, current edges, and areas near dams and falls.
- The species responds well to current breaks and structure that provides ambush points.
Silver Redhorse FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Silver Redhorse in Iowa?
Effective lures include jigs (particularly successful as proven by Iowa's state record) and various bottom-fishing rigs. Best baits include nightcrawlers, cut bait, dough balls, and minnows.
What flies work for Silver Redhorse in Iowa?
Flies that sink to the bottom. Effective fly patterns include Golden-Ribbed Hare's Ears (larger sizes preferred), Nuclear Rockworm patterns, and Bitch Creek nymph patterns.
When is the best time to fish for Silver Redhorse in Iowa?
Spring through fall, with early spring offering excellent opportunities. April presents ideal conditions.
How do you catch Silver Redhorse in Iowa?
Still fishing, drift fishing, spin casting, bait casting, and fly fishing with sinking flies. Focus on fishing near the bottom using presentations that reach their feeding zone.
What do Silver Redhorse eat?
They feed primarily on mollusks, algae, detritus, immature insects, and other small invertebrates, with a particular preference for Asian clams.
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