Drum & Croaker
Red Drum
Sciaenops ocellatus
SaltwaterSciaenidaeLeast Concern. Populations have rebounded significantly after overfishing in the past, due to effective management strategies.
About
The Red Drum is a robust fish with a streamlined body and a slightly elongated snout. They are known for their characteristic dark spot near the tail, though some individuals may have multiple spots or none at all. Red Drum are bottom feeders, using their sensitive barbels to locate prey.
- Average size
- 15-45 inches, 5-50 lbs. Can reach over 90 lbs.
- Colors
- Typically copper-bronze to reddish-brown, with a white belly. Juveniles may have darker bars.
- Diet
- Juveniles feed on crustaceans, worms, and small fish. Adults consume larger crustaceans (crabs, shrimp), mollusks, and fish.
- Region
- Atlantic coast from Massachusetts to Florida, and along the Gulf Coast from Florida to northern Mexico.