The Freshwater Drum is a large, silvery-gray freshwater fish found throughout much of North and Central America, ranging from the Great Lakes and Hudson Bay south through the Mississippi River basin to Guatemala. It inhabits large rivers, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs with sandy, muddy, or rocky bottoms, where it often remains near the benthic zone. Adults are carnivorous to omnivorous, feeding on insects, crustaceans, mollusks (including mussels), and small fish. Freshwater Drum can reach lengths of up to about 90 cm (3 ft) and weigh over 24 kg (55 lb), though more common sizes range from 30–70 cm and 1–8 lb. They are identifiable by their deep body, long dorsal fin with a distinct notch, blunt snout, and a lateral line that extends into the tail. A notable trait is their ability to produce a grunting sound using their swim bladder. They are commonly caught by anglers using bottom-fishing techniques with natural bait such as worms, crayfish, or minnows, but they will also strike jigs, crankbaits, spinners, and soft plastics worked slowly near the bottom, making them a frequent and often aggressive catch throughout the year. Sources: Animal Diversity (https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Aplodinotus_grunniens/) and Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee (https://www.lmrcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/LMR-Fishing-Guide-Version3.pdf)