Fishin All The Time Guide Service Fishing Charter

The Shorthead Redhorse (Moxostoma macrolepidotum) is a distinctive freshwater fish belonging to the Catostomidae family within the order Cypriniformes. While not typically targeted by anglers in Pleasanton waters, these fish have unique characteristics that make them interesting to encounter during October fishing trips.

Shorthead Redhorse Overview

The Shorthead Redhorse is a bottom-dwelling sucker fish with a slender body, downward-facing mouth, and distinctive reddish-orange fins. While not considered a primary gamefish, they can provide an interesting catch for anglers fishing in freshwater river systems throughout central and eastern North America.

Shorthead Redhorse Habitat and Distribution

These fish typically inhabit clear, flowing rivers and streams with rocky or gravelly substrates. They can also be found in lakes, particularly near tributary mouths. In Texas waters around Pleasanton, they may be found in the larger river systems and their tributaries, especially in areas with moderate current and clean gravel or rocky bottoms.

Shorthead Redhorse Size and Weight

Shorthead Redhorse typically range from 9 to 30 inches in length and weigh between 1 and 5 pounds. Average specimens caught by anglers are usually in the 12-18 inch range, though larger individuals can be encountered in optimal habitat conditions.

Shorthead Redhorse Diet and Behavior

These fish are primarily bottom feeders, using their fleshy, downward-pointing mouths to suck up small invertebrates, insect larvae, mollusks, and plant material from river and lake bottoms. They often feed in small groups, moving methodically over productive areas. Their feeding activity tends to increase during dawn and dusk periods.

Shorthead Redhorse Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in spring when water temperatures reach approximately 50-65°F, typically April through May in Texas waters. During this time, they migrate upstream to shallow, fast-flowing riffles with clean gravel bottoms. Multiple males will often attend a single female during the spawning process, creating visible surface disturbances in shallow water.

Shorthead Redhorse Fishing Techniques

While not typically targeted specifically, Shorthead Redhorse are occasionally caught by anglers fishing for other species. Small hooks baited with worms, grubs, or small pieces of nightcrawler fished near the bottom can be effective. Light spinning tackle with 4-8 pound test line works well. In October around Pleasanton, focus on deeper pools below riffles where these fish often congregate as water temperatures begin to cool.

Shorthead Redhorse Is It Good to Eat?

Shorthead Redhorse are edible but not widely pursued as food fish. They have a mild flavor but contain numerous small bones that make filleting challenging. Those who do eat them often smoke or pressure cook them to soften the bones. Their white, flaky flesh is relatively low in fat and provides good protein, though most anglers practice catch-and-release with this species.

Shorthead Redhorse Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Shorthead Redhorse?

A: Small worms, red worms, maggots, or small pieces of nightcrawler fished on a small hook (#8-12) near the bottom typically work best. A simple split-shot rig with minimal weight allows natural presentation in current.

Q: Where can I find Shorthead Redhorse near Pleasanton?

A: Look for them in local rivers with moderate current, particularly in deeper pools below riffles or runs. They prefer clean water with rocky or gravelly bottoms and are often found near tributary mouths or in deeper channels.

Q: Is Shorthead Redhorse good to eat?

A: While edible with a mild flavor, they're not commonly sought as table fare due to numerous small bones. Those who do eat them typically smoke or pressure cook them to make the bones more manageable.

Q: When is the best time to catch Shorthead Redhorse?

A: Spring, particularly during their spawning runs in April and May, offers the best opportunity. However, they can be caught year-round, with early morning and evening typically providing better action. In October, focus on deeper holding areas as fish prepare for winter.

Q: Do Shorthead Redhorse fight well when hooked?

A: While not known for aerial displays, they do provide a surprisingly strong, dogged fight on light tackle. Their body shape allows them to use current effectively, making them feel larger than they actually are.

Q: Are Shorthead Redhorse protected by any fishing regulations?

A: In most areas, Shorthead Redhorse fall under general rough fish regulations. Always check local Texas fishing regulations before targeting or keeping any fish species, as rules may change seasonally or by location.