Black Drum

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Black drum can be found in various coastal waters of Florida, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They are commonly encountered in estuaries, bays, tidal rivers, and nearshore areas.
Florida: Black drum can be found throughout the coastal waters of Florida. They are particularly abundant in areas such as Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Indian River Lagoon, Mosquito Lagoon, and the St. Johns River.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Black drum are often found near areas with structure and cover, such as oyster bars, mangroves, bridge pilings, and jetties. They are bottom-dwelling fish and prefer sandy or muddy bottoms.
Look for black drum in channels, near drop-offs, and in areas with submerged vegetation. They are known to root around the bottom, feeding on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Black drum are often encountered in areas with tidal flow and currents.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, black drum begin to move into shallower waters for spawning. They can be found near grass flats, oyster beds, and along shorelines. Look for them in areas with moderate tidal flow and structure. Use natural baits or soft plastic lures to entice them.

SUMMER

In the summer, black drum may move to deeper waters and nearshore areas. Look for them around jetties, bridge pilings, and other structures that provide cover and attract baitfish. Fishing during the early morning or evening can be productive when the water temperatures are cooler.

FALL

As fall arrives, black drum become more active and feed heavily to prepare for the winter. They may move into shallower waters again, particularly around oyster bars, mangroves, and channels. Live or cut bait, such as shrimp or crabs, are effective choices during this season.

WINTER

Black drum can still be caught during the winter, although they may be more sluggish. They may move to deeper holes, channels, and nearshore structures. Use natural baits presented on the bottom, such as clams or cut bait, to target them during the colder months.

Bait Fishing

How: Use natural baits such as shrimp, crabs, clams, or cut bait. Fish near structures like jetties, docks, or oyster beds, where black drum often forage for food. Allow the bait to sit on the bottom or use a slow retrieve. Black drum have a keen sense of smell, so fresh and aromatic baits work best.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or baitcasting rods. Reels: 4000-6000 size spinning reels or baitcasting reels. Line: 20-40lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Size 2/0-5/0 circle hooks or J-hooks.

Artificial Lures

How: Black drum can be enticed by a variety of lures such as soft plastics, paddle tails, or jigs. Fish near structures or areas with submerged vegetation. Retrieve the lure slowly along the bottom or use a jigging motion to imitate prey. Experiment with different colors and sizes to find what works best.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning rods or baitcasting rods. Reels: 4000-6000 size spinning reels or baitcasting reels. Line: 20-40lb test braided line or monofilament leader. Lures: Soft plastics, paddle tails, jigs.

Fly Fishing

How: Black drum can be targeted with flies that imitate crabs, shrimp, or small baitfish. Look for areas with shallow water or grass beds. Cast the fly near structure and allow it to sink slowly. Use a slow, steady retrieve or short strips to mimic natural movements.
Gear: Rods: 7-9wt fly rods. Reels: Large arbor fly reels with a smooth drag system. Line: Weight forward floating or intermediate saltwater fly line. Leaders: 9-12ft 10-20lb fluorocarbon leaders with tippet sizes ranging from 8-15lb. Flies: Crab patterns, shrimp patterns, or small baitfish imitations.

Surf Fishing

How: Black drum can be caught from the surf by casting out bait or lures. Look for areas with troughs, sandbars, or near jetties. Use natural baits such as shrimp, clams, or cut bait, or try casting lures such as spoons or plugs. Vary your casting distance and retrieve speed to find where the fish are feeding.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy surf rods. Reels: 5000-8000 size spinning reels. Line: 20-40lb test braided line or monofilament leader. Hooks: Size 2/0-5/0 circle hooks or J-hooks.