Black Drum
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Black Drum can be found in the Mid Atlantic region of the US, including the Chesapeake Bay, Delaware Bay and along the Atlantic coast.
They are typically found in inshore waters and are known to congregate around natural structures such as oyster beds, jetties, and shipwrecks
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Shoreline Structure, Rocks, Bridges, Docks, Look for Birds, Look for Bait, Shipping Channel edges, Drop-offs, Reefs, Inlets, openings into larger bodies of water, Points and drop-offs around River openings.Â
Coastal locations searching for bait on the bottom. Bridges, Rock piles.
Surf
PATTERNS
SPRING
Black Drum can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay as they migrate northwards from their wintering grounds in the south.
SUMMER
can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay as well as along the Atlantic coast. They are typically found in inshore waters where the water is warmer.
FALL
Black Drum can still be caught in the Mid Atlantic region as they migrate southwards. As the waters start to cool down, Black Drum may be found in deeper waters.
WINTER
Typically migrate deeper
Baits
Clams, Squid, Shrimp, Crab, Cut bait, Mullet.
Techniques
Chumming
How: Anglers can use a variety of fishing gear, and a variety of hooks, sinkers, and leaders to target black drum on the bottom. This involves using a mixture of ground fish parts and other natural substances to attract fish to the area. Chumming is particularly effective for black drum, which are known to be attracted to the smell of fish and crustaceans.
Gear: Rods: 5-7ft MH-H Reels: Reels Conventional, 4000-6000 spinning. Line: 30-50lb braid. Leader: 30-50lb mono or florocarbon. Hooks: 2/0 to 6/0) Tackle: fish finder rig or other bottom fishing rigs.
Drifting
How: Drifting: Drifting is when the angler uses the current to move the boat or kayak. This method is effective when fishing for black drum in tidal waters, especially when the fish are in deeper waters or around structures.
Gear: Rod: Heavy-duty, 6-8 ft, 40-80 lb line weight.
Sight Casting
How: This technique is used when the water is clear or shallower and the angler can see the fish. Anglers will cast their bait or lure in the direction of the fish.
Gear: Rod: Medium to heavy power, fast action tip, 7-9 ft, 20-30 lb line weight.
Surf
How: Select a location on the beach that may hold fish. Areas that contain currents, tides, or structure are good locations to try.
Gear:Rods: 8-12'. Reels: Conventional, Spinnning 6000-8000. Line: 50-80lb braid. Leaders: Hooks: 2/0 to 6/0). Tackle: Fish finder rig