Description
The freshwater drum can be found through out the waters of Oklahoma. They prefer clear water and a clean sand or gravel substrate but are very adaptable to other environments. These fish average around 5-15 pounds. They can be identified by their silvery color, front facing mouth, blunt snout, and deep body with a very pronounced humped back.
Fact: The male of this species often grunts when out of the water. This noise comes from a special set of muscles within the body cavity that vibrate against the swim bladder. The purpose of the grunting is unknown, but due to it being present in only mature males and during the spawning season, it is assumed to be linked to spawning.
Habitat
The freshwater drum can often be found in medium to large rivers and lakes. They tend to congregate at depths anywhere from 20-60 feet. During warm periods they can often be found in shallower depths. They prefer clear and clean water along with smooth sand or gravel bottoms.
Food Sources: Other fish, crayfish, aquatic insects.
Life Cycle
These fish spawn in May-June when water temperatures reach around 65° F. This species broadcast their eggs into the water column where they then float to the surface, leading to a high mortality rate of offspring. The average age of a freshwater drum is 6-13 years.
