Black Drum Fishing Tips

Do you want to catch more black drums? Are you interested in learning more black drum fishing tips to enhance your fishing skills? Black drums can be found along the coastal waters of the United States. They grow very large and feed mostly on crustaceans.

They are of the croaker family which includes a red drum, spotted seatrout, and the Atlantic croaker. If you want to learn how to catch more black drums, then these black drum fishing tips can help you catch more black drums.

How To Catch Black Drum

1. Trolling
If you are on a boat, you can fish for the black drum by trolling. Trolling is a fishing method that is popular among anglers. When trolling for black drum, you move the boat slowly and let the bait move at the back of the boat.  When you get a strike, take control of the line and quickly reel in the fish. Let others on board be prepared to lend a hand if needed. You can use spoons or jigs to troll for black drums.

2. Casting
Casting is another popular fishing method to catch black drums. Anglers usually cast and wait for a strike. Look for underwater structures as those are the areas the black drum will be holding out.  You can use slow-moving jigs and reel in quickly when it bites to set in the hook.

3. Surf Fishing

If you are fishing from the shore, you can surf fish for black drums.  Look for oyster beds, oyster reefs, and barnacle-covered material. These are where you will find black drums holding out when they are close to the shore. 

Anglers usually use a 6 to the 7-foot medium fishing rod when fishing for black drum, but when surf fishing, use a longer fishing rod and a little more weight than you usually use.

Black Drum Fishing Tackle

A 6 to 7-foot medium to medium-heavy action fishing rod paired with a medium-light spinning reel of the 3000 to 3500 series. Use a 12 to 15-pound braided line with a fluorocarbon leader and circle hooks will work for catching black drums. Use enough weight to keep the bait close to the bottom as they are bottom feeders and will often be at the bottom.

How To Catch Black Drum In The Surf

Black drum are found near the bottom where they prey on crustaceans and mollusks. When fishing for them, look around for jetties, docks, piers, bridge pilings, jetties, and other underwater structures that they may use as cover to ambush baitfish.

Use shrimp, blue crabs, clams, and other crustaceans to catch black drum. Still fishing, jigging, drift fishing, chumming, baitcasting, and trolling are some of the fishing methods you can use when fishing for black drum in the surf.

How To Catch Black Drum In Florida

When fishing for black drum in Florida, look for structures like rocks, wrecks, sand bars, breaking waves, docks, piers, and other structures that they may be using as cover. Anglers usually place the bait up-current of structures and let it slowly move into position by slightly lifting the weight off the bottom every few minutes. Once the bait reaches the area you want to fish for black drum, let it remain in there for a period of time.

Live or dead bait with a sinker on the line is the best setup to use when fishing for black drum in Florida. Crabs, clams, and scented lures work well when fishing for black drum as they have a very good sense of smell and touch.

How To Catch Black Drum In Texas

When fishing for black drum in Texas, get your bait to the bottom as black drum is a bottom feeder. Fresh or dead bait will work as they use their sense of smell and touch for feeding. Look for black drum along shallow grassy flats, reefs, and shorelines. Blue crabs, squid, and shrimp are baits that can be used when fishing for black drum in Texas. A soft plastic jig can also be used when fishing for black drum.

Additionally, black drum likes to “mouth” the bait for some time before swallowing it. Therefore, wait for some time and let it move off the bait, then jerk the rod tip up to set the hook.

How To Catch Black Drum In North Carolina

When fishing for black drum in North Carolina, look for structures like wrecks, jetties, bridge pilings, docks, and piers to find black drum. Let your bait get to the bottom using sinkers as there is where black drum can be found.

Cut bait like mullet, shrimp, and blood worms are used when fishing for black drum in North Carolina. The Carolina rig is often used when fishing for black drum.

Black Drum Fishing Tips

1. In spring and fall, black drums can be found in shallow waters. This makes them a target for surf fishing.

2. Black drums are bottom feeders and can be found around underwater structures in the summer.

3. Hook sizes in the range of 8/0 to 10/0 circle hooks will work for black drums.

4. Always use enough weight to keep the bait at the bottom as black drums are bottom feeders and are usually found near the bottom structures.

5. It is important to use a circle hook to prevent deep hooking and injury to the fish as large black drums are usually released back into the waters as they are considered not good to eat.

6. Since black drums are schooling fish, during the spawning “run”, if you locate a school in the springtime, you can catch many of them if you can avoid spooking them.

7. Black drum use their sense of smell and feel, with the help of their chin barbels, to find food at the bottom.

8. You can find black drums around jetties, piers, bridge pilings, seawalls, and oyster reefs in bays, rivers, creeks, inlets, passes, or beaches.

9. Black drums can be found not only in deeper waters but also in shallow waters. You can also find them in clear and murky waters, as well as salt and brackish waters.

10. During the winter months, you can find black drums in the surf zones which is ideal for fishermen who engage in surf fishing.

11. The best time to fish for black drums is spring during the spawning period.

12. The best time of the day to fish for the black drums is in the afternoon and at night. Early morning is also a good time to catch black drums.

13. When fishing on the beach for black drums, you want to pin your bait at the bottom with a 2-6 oz. pyramid sinker.

14. The best lures for black drums are 4-inch gulp shrimp with a 1/8-ounce jig head or a 3 to 5-inch paddle tail with a 1/8 to 1/2-ounce jig head.

15. When fishing for black drums in both shallow and deep water, keep the bait still and on the bottom. They will be attracted to the bait by its scent as they roam looking for food.

16. A good time to fish for black drums is when there is a good current flow. The current flow will disperse the scent of the bait through the water.

17. The best technique for hooking the black drum is to wait out the “taps” until a steady pull or weight is felt. Then reel fast and come tight since black drums are difficult to hook. They will “mouth” the bait with a subtle take.

18. Docks and bridges provide structure, shade, and forage, and are usually found in areas with high current flow. This setup is ideal for fishing black drums.

19. When fishing for black drums near docks and bridges, fish the up-tide side of the structure. You can also implement this strategy when fishing from a boat. This allows the bait to drift back naturally to the structure. You can fish for black drums at night which can be very productive.

20. Black drum uses their sense of smell more than sight. This makes feeding at night not an issue. Lighted bridges, docks, inlets, and off the beach are great for night fishing. Surf fishing at night is also very productive.

21. The mouths of rivers are good fishing spots for black drums. The current flow and structure combine to make these areas very good fishing areas for black drums.

22. Blue crabs, shrimp, and sand fleas are often used by anglers as bait to catch black drums.

How to Catch from the Shore

When fishing for black drums from the shore, look around for any structures. Look for oyster reefs, oyster beds, bridge pilings, piers, or any structure close to the shore. Set your bait, preferably live shrimp, and wait for a response.

Black Drum Fishing Gear

1. Rods

A 7-foot medium or medium-heavy action rod will work for fishing black drums. Rods are essential gear for black drum fishing, offering anglers the strength and sensitivity needed to tackle these powerful and hard-fighting fish.

When targeting black drum, anglers typically opt for medium to heavy-action rods ranging from 7 to 10 feet in length, providing the necessary backbone to handle large fish and heavy terminal tackle. Longer rods allow for longer casts, crucial when targeting black drum in deeper waters or casting beyond surf breaks.

Additionally, rods with moderate to fast action help anglers achieve greater casting distance and better control over their presentations. The ideal rod for black drum fishing should also feature a durable construction capable of withstanding the demands of saltwater angling, including corrosion-resistant guides and reel seats. With the right rod in hand, anglers can effectively target black drum in a variety of coastal environments, from shallow flats to deeper channels, and enjoy the thrill of battling these robust fish from shore or boat alike.

2. Reels

Reels play a crucial role in black drum fishing, providing anglers with the necessary power, control, and line capacity to effectively target these hard-fighting fish. When pursuing black drum, anglers typically opt for spinning reels due to their versatility and ease of use.

A quality spinning reel with a smooth drag system is essential for battling the strong runs and powerful headshakes characteristic of black drum. Anglers often choose reels with a high line capacity to accommodate the long runs and deep dives of these fish, especially when fishing in deeper waters or areas with submerged structures.

Additionally, reels with durable construction and corrosion-resistant materials are preferred for saltwater applications, ensuring longevity and reliability in harsh marine environments. With the right reel matched to a suitable rod, anglers can confidently pursue black drum in a variety of coastal habitats, from shallow flats to deep channels, and enjoy the thrill of landing these prized game fish.

3. Line

A 20 lb. braided line will work well for fishing black drums. A reliable fishing line is crucial when targeting black drum, as these powerful fish require tackle that can withstand their strength and resilience. Anglers typically opt for monofilament or braided fishing lines when pursuing black drum, each offering its advantages.

Monofilament lines provide excellent stretch, which can be beneficial for absorbing the shock of sudden strikes or powerful runs, while also offering good abrasion resistance against rough underwater structures.

On the other hand, braided lines offer superior strength and sensitivity, allowing anglers to detect subtle bites and maintain better control over their presentations. When selecting a fishing line for black drum, anglers often choose heavier line weights ranging from 20 to 50 pounds to handle the brute force of these fish and the challenging conditions of their habitats.

Additionally, fluorocarbon leaders are often used to provide extra abrasion resistance and reduce visibility, especially in clear water or when targeting wary fish. With the right fishing line setup, anglers can confidently tackle the formidable black drum and increase their chances of landing these prized game fish.

4. Hooks

Hook sizes from 7/0 to 10/0 will do the job for black drums. Hooks are essential components of fishing gear when targeting black drum, as they play a critical role in hooking and landing these powerful fish.

Anglers typically opt for sturdy, durable hooks designed to withstand the strength and resilience of black drum. Circle hooks are a popular choice for black drum fishing due to their unique design, which reduces the likelihood of gut hooking and allows for more consistent hook sets. These hooks are often used in conjunction with live or cut bait presentations, allowing the black drum to take the bait and swallow it before the hook engages, increasing the chances of a successful hookup.

Additionally, J-hooks are commonly used when fishing with natural bait or artificial lures, providing a reliable means of securing the fish once it bites. When selecting hooks for black drum fishing, anglers consider factors such as hook size, strength, and sharpness to ensure they have the best chance of hooking and landing these prized game fish.

5. Rigs

i. Carolina Rig

The Carolina rig is a versatile and effective setup frequently used by anglers targeting black drum. Consisting of a sliding weight, a swivel, a leader line, and a hook, the Carolina rig allows for precise presentation of bait near the bottom where black drum often feed.

The sliding weight can vary in size depending on the depth and current of the fishing location, with heavier weights preferred for deeper waters and stronger currents. The swivel acts as a buffer between the main line and the leader, preventing line twists and allowing the bait to move freely.

Anglers typically attach a leader line of varying lengths to the swivel, terminating in a hook baited with live or cut bait. This setup enables the bait to drift naturally with the current while maintaining contact with the bottom, enticing black drum to strike. The Carolina rig’s simplicity and effectiveness make it a popular choice for anglers seeking to target black drum in a variety of fishing environments.

ii. Drop-Shot Rig

The Drop-shot rig is a finesse technique that can be effective for targeting black drum, particularly in areas with structure or cover where they may be holding. This rig consists of a lightweight sinker tied to the end of the main line, with a hook tied above the sinker using a dropper loop knot. The hook is then baited with live or artificial bait, such as shrimp, crabs, or small fish.

When rigged properly, the bait remains suspended above the bottom while the sinker rests on the substrate, allowing for a natural presentation that entices black drum to bite. Anglers can adjust the length of the leader line between the sinker and hook to vary the height at which the bait is suspended off the bottom, depending on the depth of the water and the behavior of the fish.

The Drop-shot rig is ideal for targeting finicky black drum in shallow to moderate depths and can be particularly effective when fishing around structures like pilings, docks, or submerged vegetation where black drum tend to congregate.

iii. Freeline with Split-shot

The Freeline with Split-shot rig is a versatile and straightforward setup that can be highly effective for targeting black drum in a variety of conditions. This rig involves attaching a live or artificial bait directly to the end of the fishing line without any additional weight.

A small split shot sinker is then pinched onto the line a short distance above the hook to provide just enough weight to help the bait sink slowly and maintain a natural presentation. This setup allows the bait to move freely in the water, mimicking the natural behavior of prey and enticing black drum to strike.

Anglers can use a wide range of bait options with this rig, including shrimp, crabs, clams, and cut bait, depending on local preferences and availability. The Freeline with Split-shot rig is particularly effective when fishing in shallow water or areas with minimal current, where a stealthy presentation is essential to avoid spooking wary fish.

It’s also a popular choice for targeting black drum around structures such as jetties, piers, or oyster beds, where fish may be holding near the bottom. Overall, this rig offers simplicity, versatility, and effectiveness, making it a go-to option for anglers pursuing black drum in a variety of environments.

Best Black Drum Baits

1. Crabs

Crabs are some of the best baits used by anglers for black drum. Crabs are a highly effective bait for targeting black drum, prized for their natural scent and irresistible appeal to these bottom-dwelling fish.

When using crabs as bait for black drum fishing, anglers often opt for live specimens whenever possible, as their movement and freshness can significantly increase the chances of attracting a strike. Blue crabs, in particular, are a popular choice due to their abundance in many coastal areas and their tough shells, which can withstand the attention of larger fish.

Anglers typically rig the crab onto their hook in a way that allows it to remain as lively and natural-looking as possible, ensuring it presents an enticing target for hungry black drum. Additionally, cracked or cut crab baits can also be effective, as they release more scent into the water to attract fish over a wider area.

Whether fished near the bottom or suspended under a float, crab baits are known to produce consistent results when targeting black drum, making them a favorite among anglers chasing these hard-fighting fish in both shallow and deep waters.

2. Clams

Clams are also good bait for black drum. Clams are a favored bait choice among anglers targeting black drum, renowned for their strong scent and durability on the hook. When using clams as bait for black drum fishing, anglers typically opt for fresh or live specimens, as their natural scent and movement can attract these bottom-dwelling fish effectively.

Soft-shell clams, also known as “steamers,” are particularly popular due to their widespread availability along coastal areas and their ability to stay on the hook securely. Anglers often rig clams onto their hooks in a way that allows them to remain intact and present a natural appearance in the water. Whether fished on the bottom or suspended under a float, clams emit a powerful scent trail that can lure black drum from a distance, making them a reliable choice for anglers seeking to hook into these prized game fish.

Additionally, clam baits are versatile and can be used in a variety of fishing environments, from sandy flats to rocky shorelines, where black drum are known to frequent. Overall, clams are a proven bait option for targeting black drum and continue to be a staple in the tackle boxes of anglers pursuing these hard-fighting fish along coastal waters.

3. Mussels

Mussels, crabs, and clams are some of the best baits to catch black drum. Mussels serve as an effective bait choice for anglers targeting black drum, offering both a strong scent and durability that appeals to these bottom-feeding fish. When using mussels as bait for black drum fishing, anglers often opt for fresh or live specimens to maximize their effectiveness.

Mussels can be rigged onto hooks in a way that allows them to stay securely attached while presenting a natural appearance in the water. Their firm texture and robust scent create an enticing offering that can attract black drum from a distance, especially in areas where mussels are abundant, such as rocky coastlines or submerged structures.

Whether fished on the bottom or suspended under a float, mussels emit a scent trail that entices black drum to feed, making them a reliable choice for anglers seeking success in targeting these prized game fish.

Additionally, mussels are readily available and cost-effective bait options, making them a popular choice among anglers pursuing black drum in coastal waters. Overall, mussels are a proven bait option that can help anglers increase their chances of landing these hard-fighting fish along the shoreline.

4. Shrimp

Shrimp is a popular bait used by anglers to catch many fish including black drum. Shrimps are a highly effective bait for targeting black drum, renowned for their strong scent and natural appeal to a variety of fish species.

When used as bait for black drum fishing, fresh or live shrimps are often preferred to maximize their attractiveness. Anglers typically rig the shrimp onto hooks in a way that allows them to mimic natural movement in the water, enticing black drum to strike.

Whether fished on the bottom or suspended under a float, shrimps emit a powerful scent trail that draws in black drum from nearby. Their versatility also allows anglers to present them in different ways, such as on Carolina rigs or jig heads, depending on the fishing conditions and preferences. Shrimps can be particularly effective when fishing in areas with muddy or sandy bottoms where black drum commonly forage for food.

Overall, shrimps are a popular and reliable bait choice for anglers targeting black drum, offering a combination of scent, movement, and natural appeal that can increase the likelihood of a successful catch.

5. Cut fish

Anglers often use chunks of cut fish as bait for fish including black drum. Cut fish, such as mullet, menhaden, or bunker, are commonly used baits for targeting black drum. These baits are prized for their strong scent and ability to attract black drum over long distances.

Anglers typically cut the fish into strips or chunks, exposing the inner flesh and releasing a potent scent into the water. The oily and bloody nature of cut fish baits makes them highly appealing to black drum, which are known for their scavenging behavior and preference for fresh, natural prey. When fishing with cut fish, anglers often use bottom rigs or fish finder rigs to present the bait near the sea floor, where black drum are known to forage.

Additionally, cut fish baits can be combined with other attractants, such as fish oils or scent enhancers, to further increase their effectiveness. Whether cast from shore or deployed from a boat, cut fish baits have a proven track record of enticing strikes from black drum, making them a go-to option for anglers targeting this species.

6. Blood worms

Blood worms, known for their enticing scent and lively movement, are a popular bait choice among anglers targeting black drum. These segmented marine worms, found in coastal mud flats and sandy bottoms, are a natural prey item for many saltwater fish species, including black drum.

Anglers often use blood worms either alive or preserved, threading them onto hooks to mimic natural prey. The wriggling motion of live blood worms in the water is irresistible to black drum, triggering their predatory instincts and prompting them to strike. When fishing with blood worms, anglers may employ various rigs such as bottom rigs or Carolina rigs, allowing the bait to drift naturally with the currents near the sea floor where black drum are commonly found.

Additionally, blood worms can be combined with other baits or attractants to enhance their effectiveness, making them a versatile and reliable option for anglers seeking to hook black drum in coastal waters.

7. Mollusks

Mollusks, including clams, mussels, and oysters, are effective baits for enticing black drum while fishing in coastal waters. These shellfish are readily available along sandy or muddy bottoms where black drum often forage.

Anglers can use a variety of techniques to present mollusks as bait, such as threading them onto hooks, securing them in bait bags, or simply placing them on the hook whole. The strong scent and natural appearance of mollusks make them highly attractive to black drum, enticing them to feed aggressively.

When targeting black drum with mollusks, anglers typically fish near structures like jetties, piers, or oyster beds where black drum are known to congregate. By presenting mollusks as bait in areas with strong currents or tidal flows, anglers increase their chances of attracting black drum and enticing strikes. Overall, mollusks are a reliable and effective bait choice for anglers targeting black drum in coastal environments.

8. Oysters

Oysters are a natural bait choice for anglers targeting black drum in coastal waters. These shellfish are abundant in many estuarine environments, where black drum often feed along the muddy or sandy bottoms. Anglers can use fresh oysters as bait by shucking them and securing the meat onto their hooks.

Alternatively, anglers can use oyster shells with attached meat, which provide a natural presentation and scent to attract black drum. Oysters emit a strong odor and have a texture that black drum find irresistible, making them an effective bait option. When fishing for black drum with oysters, anglers typically target areas with submerged oyster bars, rocky bottoms, or marshy shorelines, where black drum are known to congregate.

By presenting oysters as bait in these areas, anglers increase their chances of enticing black drum strikes and landing these prized fish. Overall, oysters are a reliable and natural bait choice for anglers seeking success in black drum fishing.

9. Sand Fleas

Sand fleas, also known as mole crabs or sand crabs, are a favored bait option for anglers targeting black drum in coastal waters. These small crustaceans inhabit sandy beaches and intertidal zones, where they burrow into the sand to feed on detritus and plankton.

Anglers can collect sand fleas by scooping them up from the shoreline with a sand flea rake or by hand. Once collected, anglers can use live or freshly frozen sand fleas as bait for black drum. Rigging a sand flea onto a hook is relatively simple, as anglers can thread the hook through the flea’s body or secure it with bait thread to ensure it stays on the hook during casting and retrieval. Sand fleas emit a natural scent and movement that entices black drum, making them an effective bait choice.

When fishing with sand fleas, anglers often target areas with sandy bottoms, such as surf zones, sandbars, and tidal flats, where black drum feed on crustaceans and other bottom-dwelling organisms. By presenting sand fleas in these areas, anglers increase their chances of attracting black drum and enticing strikes. Overall, sand fleas are a natural and readily available bait option that can help anglers achieve success in black drum fishing.

The Bottom Line

Found in the coastal waters of the United States, black drums grow very large and feed mostly on crustaceans. They are a member of the croaker fish family. In this article, we share black drum fishing tips to help you, whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, catch more black drums on your fishing trips.

Bullhead fishing tips will help you catch more bullheads. If you also fish for crappies, then this article about crappie fishing tips will help be a more successful crappie angler. You can also read how to catch Atlantic spadefish and how to catch sheepshead.