Historic distribution of red drum on the Atlantic coast is from the Gulf of Main to northern Mexico.

This species has become uncommon north of New Jersey.

Red drum are more abundant in the Gulf of Mexico than along the Atlantic coast.

Adult red drum occur in Chesapeake Bay from May through November and are most abundant near the bay mouth in salinities above 15 parts per thousand.

Juveniles are most abundant in estuarine waters and inlets, while fish older than age-5 primarily inhabit coastal and offshore waters, often in large schools.

Found in the Chesapeake Bay during spring and summer, mostly concentrated midway up estuary at about 18 ppt salinity.