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Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum are found throughout West Virginia's medium to large rivers, streams and reservoirs, with greater abundance and larger individuals in major rivers like the Ohio, Kanawha, and Monongahela.

Scientific Name: Aplodinotus grunniens

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by their oblong body with a distinctive humped back, especially pronounced in larger individuals.
  • They have a rounded tail, blunt snout, and long dorsal fin extending from the peak of the back almost to the tail.
  • Their mouth is subterminal (turned downward), indicating their bottom-feeding preference.
  • The upper body is pearl gray with bronze, blue and silvery reflections, while sides are lighter and more silvery with a milky white belly.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout West Virginia's medium to large rivers, streams and reservoirs, with greater abundance and larger individuals in major rivers like the Ohio, Kanawha, and Monongahela.

Key Locations

  • Target navigable rivers like the Ohio, Kanawha, and Monongahela.
  • West Virginia's current state records are 27.88 pounds (John Gibson, 2021, Kanawha River) and 37 inches (Bill Dawkins, 1954, Little Kanawha River).
  • Look for them feeding in tailwaters below locks and dams on the Ohio and Kanawha rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on shallow flats and gravel bars where they feed.
  • Look for them in areas with sandy bottoms and good structure, around weed beds, and near any substantial structure.

Freshwater Drum FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Crayfish and worms are the most effective baits - a crawdad pitched above feeding drum typically draws strikes. Nightcrawlers work exceptionally well. Small jigs with grub or minnow tippers are productive, especially 1-ounce models.

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

Summer and fall months provide optimal freshwater drum fishing experiences in West Virginia, with the species biting year-round if you can locate them.

How do you catch Freshwater Drum in West Virginia?

Bottom-bouncing presentations work well. They can be caught casting, trolling, or bottom-fishing in both deep and shallow water during day and night. Fish baits on or near the bottom. Use small jigs with upward flips for action - 1-ounce models that sink quickly to the strike zone.

What do Freshwater Drum eat?

Freshwater drum are benthic feeders targeting crustaceans (especially crayfish), insect larvae, small fish, mollusks, and mussels. Adults often root around substrate and move rocks to dislodge prey, feeding throughout all hours including nighttime.

Where do Freshwater Drum live in West Virginia?

Found throughout West Virginia's medium to large rivers, streams and reservoirs, with greater abundance and larger individuals in major rivers like the Ohio, Kanawha, and Monongahela.

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