Caught a Black Drum Inshore in Savannah

The Black Drum (Pogonias cromis) is the largest member of the Sciaenidae family, which includes nearly 300 species of drums and croakers. These powerful fish are distinguished by their dark coloration, robust build, and the distinctive drumming sounds they produce using specialized muscles against their swim bladders. In Savannah waters this June, black drum frequent the brackish areas around oyster beds and creek mouths where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and shellfish.

Black Drum Overview

Black drum are prized by anglers for their incredible fighting ability and impressive size potential. These fish can live over 40 years and grow to substantial weights, making them one of the most sought-after inshore species along the Georgia coast. Their powerful jaws and pharyngeal teeth allow them to crush oysters, clams, and crabs with ease, making them perfectly adapted to life in Savannah's oyster-rich estuaries.

Black Drum Habitat and Distribution

Black drum inhabit brackish and saltwater environments along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Around Savannah, they're commonly found in shallow bays, tidal creeks, and near oyster reefs where their preferred prey is abundant. These fish move between deeper channels and shallow flats based on tidal movements and feeding opportunities, making local knowledge essential for consistent success.

Black Drum Size and Weight

Adult black drum typically range from 15 to 90 pounds, with fish over 50 pounds considered trophy-class specimens. The largest black drum on record exceeded 100 pounds, though fish in the 20-40 pound range are more commonly encountered by recreational anglers in Georgia waters.

Black Drum Diet and Behavior

Black drum are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume crustaceans, mollusks, and marine worms. They use their sensitive barbels to locate prey buried in sand and mud, then crush shells with their powerful pharyngeal teeth. These fish are most active during moving tides when prey is stirred up and more accessible.

Black Drum Spawning Season

Black drum spawn in nearshore waters during late winter and early spring when water temperatures reach the mid-60s. Large schools gather in deeper channels and inlet mouths during spawning season, creating excellent fishing opportunities for anglers targeting these aggregations.

Black Drum Fishing Techniques

Successful black drum fishing requires heavy tackle and strong hooks due to their size and fighting ability. Cut bait such as crab, shrimp, or mullet works best when fished on the bottom near oyster beds and structure. In June around Savannah, anglers find success using circle hooks with 4-6 ounce sinkers to keep bait near the bottom in moving water.

Black Drum Is It Good to Eat?

Smaller black drum under 15 pounds offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat that's mild in flavor. Larger fish tend to have coarser texture and stronger taste, making catch-and-release the preferred practice for trophy-sized specimens. The meat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy seafood choice when prepared fresh.

Black Drum Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for black drum?

A: Fresh or frozen crab, cut mullet, and large shrimp are the most effective baits. Blue crab pieces work exceptionally well around Savannah's oyster beds.

Q: Where can I find black drum near Savannah?

A: Look for black drum around oyster reefs, tidal creek mouths, and shallow flats with sandy or muddy bottoms where they feed on crustaceans and shellfish.

Q: Is black drum good to eat?

A: Smaller black drum under 15 pounds are excellent table fare with mild, firm white meat. Larger fish are typically released due to coarser texture.

Q: When is the best time to catch black drum?

A: Moving tides during dawn and dusk provide the best black drum fishing, especially around structure and oyster beds where they actively feed.