Freshwater Drum
Aplodinotus grunniens
Also called sheepshead, freshwater drum are common in the Great Lakes (especially Lake Erie and Saginaw Bay) and larger rivers. Often caught incidentally by walleye and bass anglers and known for strong fights.
Seasonal Activity
Jan
Slow
Feb
Slow
Mar
Slow
Apr
Good
May
Prime
Jun
Prime
Jul
Prime
Aug
Prime
Sep
Good
Oct
Good
Nov
Slow
Dec
Slow
Best Techniques
- bottom fishing
- drifting crawler harnesses
- jigging
Top Baits
- nightcrawlers
- crayfish
- minnows
- crawler harnesses
Michigan state record: 26.25 lb, 1973, Saginaw Bay