Puppy drum are a popular winter species for table and junior anglers due to their delicious, easy-to-catch, and tasty meat. They are found in bays, lagoons, and river mouths along the Gulf of Mexico and east Atlantic coastline. As they mature, they move to deeper waters for spawning, but are often wormy and not suitable for consumption beyond the mid-20 inch range.
Winter transforms Florida's Nature Coast into prime black drum territory. Captain William Toney reveals where these underrated fish congregate in deep holes and warm river inlets, plus the best baits and techniques to target both tasty "puppy drum" and trophy-sized specimens during the colder months.
Winter black drum fishing in Florida offers exceptional opportunities for anglers seeking quality table fare. These underappreciated fish provide excellent flavor when caught using proper black drum rigs and the best bait to catch black drum in deeper channels and holes.
