Black Drum

Other names: -

The black drum, Pogonias cromis, is a large fish found in the western Atlantic, ranging from Nova Scotia to Argentina. Recognizable by its dark body and distinctive barbels, it inhabits coastal waters and estuaries. This species is highly valued in commercial and recreational fisheries due to its size and flavorful meat.

Length
~20 (max 61)
Weight
~5 (max 51)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
11-22° F
Depth
30 ft

Other names
-
Length
~20 (max 61)
Weight
~5 (max 51)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
11-22° F
Depth
30 ft

Popular lures for Black Drum

Berkley Gulp! Shrimp

Blood worms

Blue Crabs

Bread or Dough Balls

Chasebaits Crusty Crab

Clams

Crabs

Cut Bait (Fish)

Green gulp jerk shad

Gulp jigging shrimp

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Regulation for Black Drum

Living Conditions

🐟 Habitat preferences
- Found over sand and sandy mud bottoms in coastal waters
- Juveniles often enter estuaries
- Feeds primarily on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish
- Prefers areas with large river runoffs
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in coastal waters
- Females release eggs that are fertilized externally
- Larvae drift and settle in estuarine nurseries
- Adults exhibit site fidelity, returning to specific areas annually for spawnin