River Redhorse
The River Redhorse is a large, heavy-bodied freshwater sucker native to North Carolina's river systems. These impressive fish are long-lived, reaching sexual maturity at 2-6 years and living up to 28 years in northern populations.
Scientific Name: Moxostoma carinatum
These impressive fish can reach 23-28 inches in length and weigh 5-9 pounds, with some specimens exceeding 30 inches and 10 pounds. They have a distinctive brassy orange to golden brown body coloration with a pale olive back and cream-colored underside.
Their fins range from moderate to bright orange, and they possess characteristically large, deeply plicate (folded) lips and heavy pharyngeal teeth adapted for crushing hard prey.
River Redhorse are distinguished from other redhorse species by their moderate-sized head and caudal peduncle scale count of 42-47.
Fishing in North Carolina
Deep River
Badin Lake
Lake Tillery
Yadkin River
Haw River
Cape Fear River
New Hope Creek
Eno River
Uwharrie River
Back Creek Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
In North Carolina, they inhabit medium to large rivers with significant flows, preferring clear waters with gravel, cobble, or rocky bottoms.Specific Spots
Target areas with steady current over clean sand, gravel, or rocky bottoms, particularly deep pools adjacent to faster water. Focus on river bends with large woody debris and areas where tributaries enter main rivers. During non-spawning periods, adults seek deeper pools and slower-moving waters around river bends with large woody debris.River Redhorse FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for River Redhorse in North Carolina?
Natural baits that mimic their preferred diet: crayfish, worms, clams, and small crustaceans work exceptionally well.
When is the best time to fish for River Redhorse in North Carolina?
Most productive from late summer through fall (July-October). Avoid fishing during their March-June spawning period when water temperatures reach 45-61°F, as this protects their reproductive cycle.
How do you catch River Redhorse in North Carolina?
Use bottom-fishing techniques with natural baits. Fish directly on the bottom using either stationary presentations or bottom-bouncing techniques that allow bait to drift naturally with the current. Centerpin float-fishing can be highly effective, letting bait brush the bottom as it follows downstream.
What do River Redhorse eat?
They're bottom-feeders that consume mussels, snails, crustaceans, and aquatic insects, using their powerful molar-like teeth to crush shells.
Where do River Redhorse live in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, they inhabit medium to large rivers with significant flows, preferring clear waters with gravel, cobble, or rocky bottoms.
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