Silver Redhorse
The Silver Redhorse is a fascinating native sucker species found throughout Minnesota's major river systems. This silver-bodied fish with a dark gray-brown back and slate gray tail is the longest-lived redhorse species, capable of reaching 41 years of age.
They're excellent water quality indicators, as they cannot tolerate murky or polluted waters.
Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum
- Silver-bodied fish with a dark gray-brown back and slate gray tail.
- Silver Redhorse in Minnesota typically measure 18-24 inches and weigh 2-5 pounds, though they can reach up to 10 pounds and 30 inches.
- They have an inferior mouth position.
Fishing in Minnesota
Mississippi River
Sauk River
Rum River
Lake Minnetonka
Mille Lacs Lake
Crow River
Snake River
Little Rock Lake
Julia Lake
Long Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found throughout Minnesota's major river systems, including the Mississippi, St.
- Croix, and Minnesota rivers.
Key Locations
- Mississippi River (particularly Pools 2-8), St.
- Croix River below St.
- Croix Falls, and the Minnesota River below Granite Falls Dam.
- In the St.
- Croix system, focus on areas with permanent flow.
Specific Spots
- Look for clean, clear water areas with gravel or rocky bottoms, deep pools with moderate current, and areas near wing dams or rock structures.
- They prefer clear rivers and deep pools with sand substrates, often living near undercut banks or protruding tree roots.
- Focus on gravel/rock bottoms.
Silver Redhorse FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What flies work for Silver Redhorse in Minnesota?
Productive fly patterns include size 10-12 black nymphs, small beaded woolly buggers, clouser minnows, and clam or mussel imitations.
When is the best time to fish for Silver Redhorse in Minnesota?
Late spring through fall, with peak fishing occurring after their spawning period ends in late May through early fall. Spawning runs occur in spring (April-May).
How do you catch Silver Redhorse in Minnesota?
Target deeper pools and runs, drifting bait along the bottom or sight-fishing to visible fish in clear water. Fish can be sight-fished in shallow, clear water and are often found in 'defensive lines'.
What do Silver Redhorse eat?
These bottom-feeders feed primarily on mollusks, algae, detritus, immature insects, and small invertebrates - particularly aquatic insect larvae, snails, and crustaceans found on gravel and rocky substrates.
Where do Silver Redhorse live in Minnesota?
Found throughout Minnesota's major river systems, including the Mississippi, St. Croix, and Minnesota rivers.
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