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Silver Redhorse

Silver Redhorse

The Silver Redhorse in Tennessee is a medium-sized member of the sucker family that serves as an excellent indicator of water quality, as they cannot tolerate polluted or turbid waters.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by their silver bodies with dark gray-brown backs, light gray to tan dorsal fins, and beige to orange pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins.
  • They typically measure 18-24 inches and weigh 2-5 pounds, though they can reach up to 10 pounds and 30 inches.
  • Males develop prominent tubercles on anal and caudal fins during breeding.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Distributed throughout the Tennessee River drainage system.
  • Prefer clean, clear waters with moderate to fast currents over sand, gravel, and bedrock substrates in medium to large rivers, as well as deep pools and lakes.

Key Locations

  • Flint River system (particularly the 20-25 mile section in Madison County, Alabama, that originates in Lincoln County, Tennessee), Duck River, Elk River, Buffalo Rivers, Wheeler Reservoir and associated tributaries.

Specific Spots

  • Look for areas with gravel-filled riffles and pools, particularly around undercut banks, protruding tree roots, and rocky areas.
  • Target gravel shoal areas during spawning season.

Silver Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Silver Redhorse in Tennessee?

Fresh nightcrawlers, earthworms, jigs, dough balls, cut bait that can reach the bottom.

What flies work for Silver Redhorse in Tennessee?

Bitch Creek nymphs, Golden-Ribbed Hare's Ears (larger sizes preferred), Nuclear Rockworms.

When is the best time to fish for Silver Redhorse in Tennessee?

Most productive from February through April during their spawning migration, with peak action occurring from March to mid-April. Duck River fishery extends from mid-March to mid-May. Once fish move onto spawning shoals in April, avoid targeting them to protect the fishery.

How do you catch Silver Redhorse in Tennessee?

Bottom-fishing techniques work well since these are bottom feeders. Dr.ift fishing allows natural presentation in current, while still fishing works in slower pool areas.

What do Silver Redhorse eat?

Bottom feeders with specialized sucker mouths, feeding primarily on mollusks (especially Asian clams), aquatic insect larvae, algae, and detritus.

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