Red Drum - Redfish

The red drum (redfish) is one of the largest members of the croaker family. Large adults can weigh over 50 pounds. In estuaries throughout the Mid Atlantic, juvenile red drum, called "puppy drum" sometimes occur in large numbers.

Red drum are found around shellfish beds, artificial reefs, and other areas of rough bottom. Anglers catch red drum with a variety of cut baits including spot, menhaden, clams, blue crab, shrimp, or other baits. When drum are present around shallow wrecks or reefs, they can be caught by casting jigs or other lures casted among structure. In parts of Virginia and North Carolina, anglers occasionally catch trophy sized red drum by trolling large spoons along shoals or other productive areas.

Red drum are one of the top species targeted while surf fishing.