Freshwater Drum

Occurs in bottoms of medium to large rivers and lakes. Feeds on mollusks, benthic crustaceans, and insects.

Occur in bottoms of medium to large rivers and lakes (Ref. 557, 10294). Adults feed on aquatic insect immatures such as mayflies (Hexagenia), amphipods, fish (especially shad and young drum), crayfish and mollusks. Larval stages of drum consume larvae of other fishes, while young fishes utilize zooplankton (Ref. 10294). Known to produce sound. L-shaped otoliths are collected as 'lucky stones' (Ref. 557). Utilized fresh and can be pan-fried and broiled (Ref. 9988).

fisheries: minor commercial; gamefish: yes