Bobbr

Species guide

How to catch Red drum

Sciaenops ocellatus

Stylized 2D illustration of Red drum
brackishsaltwatergame fishSciaenidae

The red drum is a popular game fish known for its distinctive reddish color and a characteristic black spot near its tail. It inhabits coastal waters and estuaries, often found over sandy or muddy bottoms. This strong, versatile fish is prized by anglers for its fighting ability.

Where they live

Red drum are commonly found in shallow coastal waters and estuaries over sand and sandy mud bottoms, especially in North American Atlantic and Gulf regions.

Typical size

Up to about 155 cm

What they eat

  • small fish
  • crustaceans
  • mollusks

Best baits

  • shrimp
  • crabs
  • cut bait
  • live small fish

Best lures

  • soft plastic shrimp imitations
  • jigs
  • spoons
  • topwater plugs

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • surf fishing
  • casting lures near structure
  • light tackle fishing

Track every Red drum you catch.

Bobbr turns each catch into a species collection, quests, and streaks. We're building it now — join the iOS waitlist for $19 lifetime founding access.

Claim founding access
How to catch Red drum | Bobbr