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Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum in Virginia are native to the Powell and Clinch watersheds of the Upper Tennessee River Basin in southwest Virginia, with introduced populations in the Roanoke River watershed.

They're classified as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need and protected as 'non-game' fish due to their critical role as the sole host for the imperiled Fragile Papershell mussel.

Scientific Name: Aplodinotus grunniens

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silver-bodied fish with a distinctive laterally compressed shape with a high back, two connected dorsal fins, blunt snout, and rounded triangular tail.
  • Virginia Freshwater Dr.um grow to about 30 inches and live approximately 15 years.
  • They have small mouths and strong pharyngeal teeth.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Native to the Powell and Clinch watersheds of the Upper Tennessee River Basin in southwest Virginia, with introduced populations in the Roanoke River watershed.
  • Found in medium to large rivers, streams, and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • Powell and Clinch watersheds of the Upper Tennessee River Basin in southwest Virginia, Roanoke River watershed, Clinch River where they're occasionally encountered alongside bass and catfish.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on sandy-bottom areas in 40-60 foot depths.
  • Target hard-bottom areas and structure where they feed on mollusks and crustaceans.
  • In rivers, look for deep holes, current edges, and slower water adjacent to fast current.
  • They prefer undisturbed waters with sandy bottoms that facilitate their bottom-feeding behavior.

Freshwater Drum FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawlers, crayfish tails, cut bait, crickets, and shiners. Small jigs (they have small mouths), gold and silver spoons, spinners, crankbaits, jerkbaits, and blade baits. The 1/2-ounce blade bait is particularly effective.

What flies work for Freshwater Drum in Virginia?

Olive, tan, and brown Woolly Buggers in sizes #6-#2 with flash, beadhead nymphs in sizes #10-#6, Clouser Minnows in chartreuse/white or olive/white, Muddler Minnows, and stonefly nymphs.

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

Best fishing occurs outside spawning season (avoid April-June). Spawning occurs between April and June when water temperatures reach 65-70°F.

How do you catch Freshwater Drum in Virginia?

Bottom fishing works well. Present flies or lures near the bottom with slow, erratic retrieves. Work lures with short hops off the bottom.

What do Freshwater Drum eat?

Benthic feeders targeting crustaceans, insect larvae, mollusks, and small fish like minnows. Their diet includes zebra mussels, making them ecologically valuable for controlling invasive species. They feed continuously, often moving rocks and substrates to dislodge prey.

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