ND Freshwater Drum Fishing Guide

Drum Family: This family contains many saltwater fishes, but only one that lives entirely in freshwater. Some drum species have complicated swim bladders and make audible sounds, especially during spawning season.

Identification: Silver-gray and deep-bodied Top fin is long and almost separated into two parts Tail is rounded

Notes: Also known as sheepshead and grunter. The freshwater drum has two “lucky stones,” or ear bones, located in its head. These stones are called otoliths and are used by fish for balance, orientation and sound detection. All fish have these structures, but they are larger and more pronounced in drum. The drum resides on the bottom in calm areas of deep water bodies. At first glance, this fish can be confused with a white bass . Drum are excellent to eat after removing the thin layer of red, fatty meat on the skin side of the flesh.

Habitat & Range

Also known as sheepshead and grunter. The freshwater drum has two “lucky stones,” or ear bones, located in its head. These stones are called otoliths and are used by fish for balance, orientation and sound detection. All fish have these structures, but they are larger and more pronounced in drum. The drum resides on the bottom in calm areas of deep water bodies. At first glance, this fish can be confused with a white bass . Drum are excellent to eat after removing the thin layer of red, fatty meat on the skin side of the flesh.

Fishing Season

Open year-round (April 1 – March 31)

License & Regulations

A valid North Dakota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Resident and non-resident licenses are available. Two free fishing days per year (typically in June and December) allow fishing without a license. Purchase licenses online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website.

References

• North Dakota — Freshwater Drum