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River Redhorse

River Redhorse

River Redhorse in Ohio are among the largest redhorse species in North America and are native fish that serve as excellent indicators of water quality due to their intolerance of turbidity and siltation.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma carinatum

Physical Characteristics:
  • Sexually mature adults averaging 22 inches in length and reaching a maximum recorded length of 32 inches.
  • They can weigh 5-9 pounds on average, with some specimens exceeding 10 pounds.
  • Distinguished by brown or olive-green dorsum, brassy yellowish-green or coppery sides, white undersides, and characteristic crimson caudal and dorsal fins.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found primarily in the Ohio River drainage system.
  • Prefer clear, large rivers with swift currents, gravel or cobble substrates.

Key Locations

  • Ohio River drainage system, with stable populations documented in larger rivers and tributaries throughout the state.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper pool areas (1-10 feet deep) with moderate currents and gravel or cobble bottoms.
  • Focus on long deep runs and pools adjacent to riffles.
  • They concentrate on bottom-dwelling organisms in deeper run/pool habitats of 1-10 feet deep during most of the year.

River Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for River Redhorse in Ohio?

Live baits work exceptionally well, including pieces of nightcrawler, leeches, small crayfish, and clams.

What flies work for River Redhorse in Ohio?

Size 10-12 black nymphs, smaller beaded woolly buggers, clouser minnows, and yarn e.g.g patterns. Patterns tied to resemble clams are particularly effective when drifted near the bottom.

When is the best time to fish for River Redhorse in Ohio?

Late spring through early fall for feeding periods. Avoid late April through June spawning period when water temperatures reach 68-74°F.

How do you catch River Redhorse in Ohio?

Bottom-fishing techniques are most effective. Allow baits to settle and slowly bounce along the bottom with the current, as River Redhorse won't chase fast-moving presentations due to their sub-terminal mouth position. For fly fishing, watch your fly line tip carefully for hesitations indicating strikes.

What do River Redhorse eat?

Bottom-feeders with a specialized diet consisting primarily of mollusks, snails, crustaceans, and aquatic insect larvae. They possess enlarged, molar-like pharyngeal teeth that allow them to crush mollusk shells more effectively than any other sucker species.

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