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Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum in North Dakota are the only North American member of the drum family to live entirely in freshwater. These hardy fish can live 6-13 years and are excellent table fare after removing the red fatty meat layer.

Scientific Name: Aplodinotus grunniens

Also known as sheepshead, grunter

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silver-gray, deep-bodied fish distinguished by their long dorsal fin that's almost separated into two parts, rounded tail, and large otoliths (ear bones) called 'lucky stones.'.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Inhabit the Red River, Missouri River systems, and large reservoirs.
  • Feed on the bottom in calm areas of deep rivers and lakes.

Key Locations

  • Red River, Missouri River systems, Lake Sakakawea, Lake Oahe.

Specific Spots

  • Deeper areas (5-10 feet) around structure like rock outcroppings, submerged trees, and current breaks in rivers.
  • Deep river channels.
  • Slow-moving pools near fast water.
  • Slow pools and eddies near fast current.

Freshwater Drum FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Freshwater Drum in North Dakota?

Live bait: nightcrawlers, crayfish, leeches, minnows. Lures: gold or silver spoons, jigs with paddle tails (lime green works well), crankbaits, spinners, trolling plugs.

When is the best time to fish for Freshwater Drum in North Dakota?

Prime fishing season runs from June through July, with excellent action continuing into fall. Spring fishing (avoid spawning period) works well. Summer tactics include dropping live bait into deep river channels. Fall fishing is productive using larger baits as drum bulk up for winter.

How do you catch Freshwater Drum in North Dakota?

Bottom fishing with slip bobber rigs is highly effective. Jigs can be cast and retrieved steadily or bounced off the bottom. Trolling plugs works exceptionally well, particularly in fall. Use fish finders to locate schools in summer.

What do Freshwater Drum eat?

Feed on a diverse diet of crayfish, mollusks, mussels (including invasive zebra mussels), aquatic insect larvae, small fish like minnows and young gizzard shad, and nightcrawlers.

Where do Freshwater Drum live in North Dakota?

Inhabit the Red River, Missouri River systems, and large reservoirs. Feed on the bottom in calm areas of deep rivers and lakes.

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