Deep Sea Fishing in Topsfield with Captain Taylor

Black Drum (Pogonias cromis) is a member of the Sciaenidae family in the order Perciformes. These distinctive fish are known for their dark coloration, prominent chin barbels, and the drumming sound they produce using specialized muscles against their swim bladder. In Topsfield waters during March, they provide excellent sport for offshore anglers. Black Drum Overview Black Drum are the largest members of the drum family, reaching impressive sizes and offering strong, determined fights when hooked. They're highly sought after by anglers for their fighting ability and table qualities when caught at smaller sizes. Black Drum Habitat and Distribution These fish typically inhabit brackish and coastal waters, particularly around structure like oyster beds, pier pilings, bridges, and deeper channels. Around Topsfield, they're commonly found in areas where freshwater meets saltwater and around offshore structures where they can find abundant prey. Black Drum Size and Weight Black Drum can reach impressive proportions, typically weighing between 15 to 90 pounds when mature. Trophy specimens can exceed 100 pounds, though most caught by recreational anglers range between 5-30 pounds, providing excellent sport on appropriate tackle. Black Drum Diet and Behavior They primarily feed on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish, using their powerful pharyngeal teeth to crush oysters, clams, and crabs. Black Drum are often found feeding along the bottom, using their sensitive barbels to locate prey in murky waters. They're most active during dawn and dusk periods. Black Drum Spawning Season In the Topsfield area, Black Drum typically spawn from late winter through early spring, with peak activity in March and April. They gather in large schools in deeper channels and passes during this time, making them more accessible to anglers. Black Drum Fishing Techniques For successful Black Drum fishing: - Use fresh cut bait, crab, or shrimp presented on or near the bottom - Fish deeper structure using jigging techniques with heavy jigs tipped with natural bait - Target areas with moving water near structure, particularly during tide changes In March, anglers around Topsfield often find success targeting them around deeper offshore structure where they gather before spawning. Black Drum Is It Good to Eat? Smaller Black Drum (under 15 pounds) are considered good table fare with white, flaky meat that's excellent when grilled, baked, or blackened. Larger specimens tend to be coarser in texture and may contain parasites, leading many anglers to release trophy-sized fish. Black Drum Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the best bait for Black Drum? A: Fresh blue crab, shrimp, clams, and cut bait like mullet work exceptionally well when fishing for Black Drum. Q: Where can I find Black Drum near Topsfield? A: Black Drum are commonly found around offshore structure, channel edges, and areas with mixed bottom composition offering plenty of crustaceans and mollusks. Q: When is the best time to catch Black Drum? A: March through May offers excellent Black Drum fishing in Topsfield waters, particularly during the pre-spawn and spawning periods when they gather in larger numbers. Q: What size tackle is needed for Black Drum? A: Medium-heavy to heavy conventional or spinning tackle with 30-50 pound test line is ideal for handling these powerful fighters.