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Silver Redhorse

Silver Redhorse

Silver Redhorse (Moxostoma anisurum) is a native sucker species found in West Virginia's river systems, particularly in the Ohio River drainage. As excellent water quality indicators, they cannot tolerate murky or polluted waters.

West Virginia lists Silver Redhorse among its native sucker species alongside black, golden, river, and shorthead redhorse.

Scientific Name: Moxostoma anisurum

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are characterized by their silvery sides, dark gray-brown back, and slate gray tail with a large, moderately forked caudal fin.
  • The dorsal fin is slightly convex and contains 14-17 soft rays, distinguishing it from other redhorse species.
  • They typically measure 18-24 inches and weigh 2-5 pounds, though specimens can reach up to 30 inches and 10 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit medium to large rivers with clean, clear water, preferring deep pools with little current, undercut banks, protruding tree roots, and sand substrates.

Key Locations

  • Focus on the Ohio River system and its tributaries throughout West Virginia.
  • The best fishing occurs below dams or on rocky riffles in tributaries where fish concentrate during migrations.
  • They're found in West Virginia's major river systems including tributaries of the Ohio River.

Specific Spots

  • Target undercut banks, deep pools with minimal current, and areas around protruding tree roots in medium to large rivers.
  • Target areas around protruding tree roots.

Silver Redhorse FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Effective baits include live earthworms, though dead bait won't work as Silver Redhorse prefer live offerings. Jigs work well for spin fishing, particularly those that can reach bottom structure.

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

Spring spawning runs when water temperatures reach 45-50°F, typically from late April through May. They spawn in spring (April-May) when water temperatures reach around 53°F - this spawning period should be avoided by anglers.

How do you catch Silver Redhorse in West Virginia?

Use bottom-fishing techniques. Sight fishing in clear water can be extremely effective - cast upstream of visible fish and use current to swing bait toward them, watching for the telltale nose twitch as they detect food.

What do Silver Redhorse eat?

Silver Redhorse are bottom feeders with inferior mouth positioning, feeding on mollusks, algae, detritus, immature insects, and small invertebrates.

Where do Silver Redhorse live in West Virginia?

They inhabit medium to large rivers with clean, clear water, preferring deep pools with little current, undercut banks, protruding tree roots, and sand substrates.

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