The only strictly freshwater member of the drum family (Sciaenidae) in the region, featuring a steep humped back, silvery scales, and a sub-terminal mouth built for crushing crayfish and mussels. Produces deep grunting sounds using swim bladder muscles.
Season
May – October
Where
Monocacy River, Upper Potomac River, Susquehanna River
Salinity band
Inland Freshwater (0 - 3 ppt)
Status
Established Inland Freshwater Species
Record
MD Record: 26 lbs 0 oz
How we fish for them
Bounce 3/8oz jig heads tipped with live crayfish or nightcrawlers along deep river gravel ledges.
Rod: 7'0" medium spinning rod Reel: 3000-size reel • 15lb Braid + 12lb FC
Gear for this in the catalog →Handle with care
Safe release: Wet hands or rubber net before handling to preserve protective slime layer.
Seasons & limits are the law's, not ours
Size, season and creel rules change; always verify with the official regulations before you fish. Maryland DNR regulations →
Profile last reviewed: August 2026