Silver Redhorse
The Silver Redhorse is a freshwater sucker found in South Carolina's river systems, though it's not as common as in more northern waters. Silver Redhorse serve as excellent water quality indicators since they cannot tolerate murky or polluted water.
Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum
- Distinguished by their silver sides, dark gray-brown back, and slate gray tail with a moderately forked caudal fin.
- They have an inferior mouth position adapted for bottom feeding, with lips forming a deep 'V' shape.
- Silver Redhorse typically measure 18-24 inches and weigh 2-5 pounds, though specimens up to 10 pounds and 30 inches have been recorded.
Fishing in South Carolina
Lake Marion
Wateree River
Broad River
Saluda River
Lake Murray
Black River
Catawba River
Lynches River
Lake Moultrie
Santee River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Medium to large rivers, deep pools with little current, and areas with sand substrates.
Key Locations
- South Carolina's river systems including findings in the New River Dr.ainage in North Carolina, suggesting presence in border waters.
Specific Spots
- Look for deep pools with minimal current, sandy or gravel substrates, and areas around undercut banks, fallen trees, rock structures, protruding tree roots.
Silver Redhorse FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Silver Redhorse in South Carolina?
Nightcrawlers, cut bait, bread or dough balls, and small minnows presented on the bottom using jigs or weighted rigs.
What flies work for Silver Redhorse in South Carolina?
Larger nymphs like Golden-Ribbed Hare's Ears, Bitch Creek nymphs, and Nuclear Rockworm patterns that sink to the bottom.
How do you catch Silver Redhorse in South Carolina?
Use bottom-fishing techniques since these fish feed on the river bottom. Try both drift fishing and still fishing techniques, allowing baits to reach the bottom where these fish actively feed. Ensure your presentation reaches the substrate.
What do Silver Redhorse eat?
As bottom feeders, they consume mollusks, algae, detritus, immature insects, and small invertebrates.
Where do Silver Redhorse live in South Carolina?
Medium to large rivers, deep pools with little current, and areas with sand substrates.
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