Southwest Florida Fish List & Search

NameDescriptionWhere FoundSizeRemarksImage
Almaco Jackhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/AlmacoJack-optimized.pngA deep-bodied amberjack; sometimes darker in coloration; front of soft dorsal and of anal fins high and elongated; body more flattened than banded rudderfish or greater amberjack; no scutes.Wide-ranging in OFFSHORE waters, not a common catch; young are associated with Sargassum.Usually less than 20 pounds.Spawns offshore, apparently during spring, summer, and fall.
American Shadhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/shad-optimized.pngColor of back green or greenish blue with metallic lustre; silvery sides, white underneath 9 colors darken when fish enters fresh water to spawn); belly with scutes forming distinct keel; one or more dark spots in a row behind operculum; lower jaw with pointed tip that fits into v-shaped notch in upper jaw.OFFSHORE except during late winter spawning run into east coast rivers, notably the St. Johns River.Most catches 2 to 3 pounds; common to 5 poundsAnadromous species, coming into fresh water to spawn; young remain in fresh water to length of 2 to 4 inches, then move out to sea; plankton feeder, but strikes small, bright spoons or flies; their roe ( as many as 30,000 in a single female ) is prized, the flesh full of fork bones.
Atlantic Sharpnose Sharkhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/sharpnose-optimized.pngLong and flattened snout; white trailing edge of pectoral; black-edged dorsal and caudal fins, especially when young; may have small whitish spots on sides; furrows in lips at the corners of the mouth; outer margin of teeth notched; second dorsal fin originates over middle of anal fin; brown to olive-gray in color with white inderside; slender body.INSHORE species, even found in surf; also common in bays and estuaries; adults occur OFFSHORE.A small species, 2 ? 4 feet.Mature adults between 2 and 2.75 feet long; 4-7 newborns range from 9 to 14 inches in length; adults feed on small fish and crustaceans.
Atlantic Croakerhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/AtlanticCroaker-optimized.pngInferior mouth; 3 to 5 pairs of small barbels on chin; silvery-gray or bronze body with dark oblique wavy bars or lines; iridescent especially on head; preopercle strongly serrated.Generally found north of Tampa Bay on the west coast, and north of Cape Canaveral on the east coast; young fish found in estuaries; older fish (2 to 3 years) inhabit deep OFFSHORE waters during the winter months and move into bays and estuaries during the spring, summer, and fall.Usually less than 2 pounds.During spawning becomes bronze or yellow in color; spawning apparently occurs OFFSHORE in fall; longevity 2 to 4 years.
Atlantic Spadefishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ATLANTICSpade-optimized.pngSilvery with 4 to 6 black vertical bands on each side which sometimes become obscure in larger fish; deep, flattened body; separated first and second dorsal fins; concave caudal fin; anterior rays of second dorsal fin and anal fin elongated.INSHORE and NEARSHORE, around natural reefs, and especially near navigation markers in 15 to 20 feet of water.Most catches less than 2 pounds, known to reach 15 pounds.Spawns in spring and summer; travels in large schools; small juveniles almost totally black, known to drift on their sides and mimic floating debris; feeds on crustaceans, small encrusting invertebrates, and may nibble on tentacles of jellyfish.
Banded Rudderfishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BandedRudderfish-optimized.pngFish is less than 11 inches long; has dark band from eye to first dorsal fin and six prominent bars on body; larger fish are bluish, greenish, or brown; soft dorsal base about twice the length of the anal fin; tail-lobe white tipped.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE over hard bottom, generally in shallower water than other amberjacks; young associated with weed lines or floating debris and may follow shark and other large fish.Usually less than 10 pounds.Adults feed on fish and shrimp; spawns OFFSHORE most of the year.
Bank Sea Basshttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BankSeaBass-optimized.pngPale olive or brassy brown in color with indistinct black blotches that form vertical barrings ( the blotch above pectoral fin darker ); wavy blue lines on head; lips purplish-blue; caudal fin tri-lobed on adults; edge of nape unscaled.OFFSHORE in deep water with rocks and reefs.Usually 0.3 pounds ( 8 inches).Undergoes sex change, starting life as a female, changing into male after 3 or 4 spawning seasons; feeds on the bottom, taking squid, crustaceans, and small fish.
Black Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BlackGrouper-optimized.pngOlive or gray body coloration with black blotches and brassy spots; gently rounded preopercle. OFFSHORE species; adults associated with rocky bottoms. reef, and drop-off walls in water over 60 feet deep; young may occur INSHORE in shallow water.OFFSHORE species; adults associated with rocky bottoms. reef, and drop-off walls in water over 60 feet deep; young may occur INSHORE in shallow water.Common to 40 pounds, may attain weights exceeding 100 pounds. No Florida record because of identity confusion with Gag, which are mistakenly called ?Black Grouper?.Spawns between May and August; protogynous hermaphrodites, young predominantly female, transforming into males as they grow older; larger individuals generally in greater depths; feeds on fish and squid.
Black Drumhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/blackdrum-optimized.pngHigh arched back; 10 to 14 pairs of chin barbels; gray or black colored body in adults; young have 4 to 6 vertical bars; has cobblestone-like teeth capable of crushing oysters; large scales.Structure-loving fish, associated with reefs and rubble OFFSHORE; smaller specimens often found in INSHORE finger channels.Common to 1.5 Pounds ( 13 inches ).Spawns January through March; protogynous hermaphrodites, older females becoming breeding males; omnivorous bottom feeders, diet including small fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.
Black Drumhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/blackdrum-optimized.pngHigh arched back; 10 to 14 pairs of chin barbels; gray or black colored body in adults; young have 4 to 6 vertical bars; has cobblestone-like teeth capable of crushing oysters; large scales.INSHORE fish common to bays and lagoons; bottom dweller often found around oyster beds; also OFFSHORE.Common to 30 pounds.INSHORE fish common to bays and lagoons; bottom dweller often found around oyster beds; also OFFSHORE.
Blackfin Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BlackFinSnapper-optimized.pngColor generally red, with yellow caudal, anal, and pelvic fins; distinctive and prominent dark comma-shapped blotch at the base of the pectoral fins; which gives the fish its common name; anal fin rounded; no black spot on side underneath dorsal fin.Adults OFFSHORE near cintinental shelf.Common to 20 inches, larger individuals seeking deeper waters.Sometimes marketed as red snapper; feeds on smaller fish.
Blue Runnerhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BlueRunner-optimized.pngColor light olive to bluish green above, silvery gray to golden below; frequently black spot on operculum; readily distinguished from Crevalle Jack by lack of dark blotch on pectoral fin; tail tips blackish.Juveniles found OFFSHORE; adults NEARSHORE in schools, but sometimes ranging INSHORE as well.Usually less than 1 pound (11 inches).Matures by 9 to 10 inches; spawns OFFSHORE from January through August; young form schools associated with floating objects, and have been observed living inside the bell of jellyfish; adults feed on fish, shrimp, and squid.
Blue Marlinhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BlueMarlin-optimized.pngColor cobalt blue on top shading to silvery white on bottom; upper jaw elongated in form of spear; dorsal fin and pointed at front end; pectoral fin and anal fin pointed; lateral line reticulated (interwoven like a net), difficult to see in large specimens; no dark spots on dorsal fin; body covered with imbedded scales ending in one or two sharp points.OFFSHORE, a blue water fishLargest of the Atlantic marlins, common to 11 feet, known to exceed 2,000 pounds.All of trophy size are females; males do not exceed 300 pounds; make trans-Atlantic migration; spawning procedures unknown; feeds on squid and pelagic fish, including blackfin tuna and frigate mackerel.
BlueFishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BlueFish-optimized.pngColor blue or greenish-blue on back, sides silvery; mouth large; teeth prominent, sharp. and compressed; dorsal and anal fins nearly the same size; scales small; lateral line almost straight.Young usually INSHORE spring and summer; moving OFFSHORE to join adults fall and winter; strong migration of northeast Atlantic stock to Florida east coast in winter.Most west coast catches under 3 pounds, much larger on east coast.Travels in large schools, following schools of baitfish; cannibalistic; all members of a given school about the same size; spawning occurs OFFSHORE in spring and summer.
BoneFishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BoneFish-optimized.pngSilvery color with bluish or greenish back; slender, round body; snout long, conical, aiming downward and overhanging lower jaw; dark streaks between scales on upper half of body and faint crossbands extending down to lateral line; extremities of dorsal and caudal fins shaded with black.Primarily INSHORE fish inhabiting shallows of the Florida Keys; found in shallows often less than 1 foot deep, usually over lush grass flats, occasionally over white sand.3 to 5 pounds.Travels in loose schools; roots out shrimp, shellfish, crabs, and fish from the bottom; spawns offshore, eggs hatching into ribbon-like larvae that metamorphose into fish-like form at about 2 inches and move inshore.
BonnetHead Sharkhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BonnetHead-optimized.pngBroadly widened head in the shape of a shovel; only slight indentation of anal fin; front of head not notched at midline; gray or grayish-brown in color.INSHORE species found in bays and estuaries.Commonly 3 to 4 feet.Matures at about 3 feet in length and bears 6 to 12 young at one time. Feeds chiefly on crabs and other crustaceans.
Cero Mackerelhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Cero-optimized.pngColor of black iridescent bluish green; sides silvery; yellow spots forming lines above and below a bronze stripe from pectoral fin to base of the tail; front of first dorsal is bluish black; lateral line curves gradually to base of caudal fin.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE fish occurring mainly in south Florida, especially over coral reefs and wrecks.Common to 5 pounds.Unlike other mackerel, does not stray far from Florida waters; spawns OFFSHORE in midsummer; feeds on small fish and squid.
Cobiahttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Cobia-optimized.pngLong, slim fish with broad depressed head; lower jaw projects passed upper jaw; dark lateral stripe extends through eye to tail; first dorsal fin comprised of 7 to 9 free spines; when young, has conspicuous alternating black and white horizontal stripes.Both INSHORE and OFFSHORE inhabiting inlets, bays, and among mangroves; frequently seen around buoys, pilings and wreaks.Common to 30 pounds.Spawns in spring and early summer; feeds on crabs, squid, and small fish.
Common Snookhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Commonsnook-optimized.pngDistict black lateral line; high, divided dorsal fin; sloping forehead; large mouth, protruding lower jaw; grows much larger than other snooks; pelvic fin yellow.From central Florida south, usually INSHORE in coastal and brackish waters, along mangrove shorelines, seawalls, and bridges; also on reefs and pilings NEARSHORE.Most catches 5 to 8 pounds.Spawns primarily in summer; cannot tolerate water temperatures below 60? F; can tolerate wholly fresh or saltwater; schools along shore and in passes during spawning season; feeds on fish and larger crustaceans.
Crevalle Jackhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/CrevalleJack-optimized.pngColor bluish-green to greenish-gold back and silvery or yellowish belly; soft dorsal and anal fins almost identical in size; prominent black spot on operculum (gill cover); black spot at the base of each pectoral fin; no scales on throat.Common in both INSHORE waters and the open sea.Usually 3 to 5 pounds.Tolerates a wide range of salinities; schools corner a school of baitfish at the surface and feed with commotion that can be seen for great distances; feeds mainly on small fish; peak spawning occurs OFFSHORE from March through September.
Cubera Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/CuberaSnapper-optimized.pngColor dark brown or gray, may have a reddish tinge; broad-based triangular tooth patch on roof of mouth without posterior extension; despite its specific name, which translates to ?blue-fin?, the fin have only a slight tinge of blue; canine teeth on both jaws very strong; one pair of canines enlarged and visible even when mouth is closed.Juveniles INSHORE in grassbeds; adults OFFSHORE or NEARSHORE over wrecks, reefs, and ledges.Common to 40 pounds.The largest of the snappers, ranging to 125 pounds; not common anywhere in its range; feeds on fish and larger crustaceans; in the Keys, spawns during later summer.
Dog Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DogSnapper-optimized.pngColor brown with a bronze tinge, lighter on sides; canine teeth very sharp, one pair notable enlarged, visible even when mouth is closed; in adults, pale triangle and a light blue interruped line below the eye; no dark spot on body under dorsal fin.Large adults OFFSHORE over coral and rocky reefs; juveniles associated with estuaries.Large snapper; attaing 30 pounds.Spawns from spring through fall; known as night feeder; taking fish, mollusks, and crustaceans.
Dog Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DogSnapper-optimized.pngColor brown with a bronze tinge, lighter on sides; canine teeth very sharp, one pair notable enlarged, visible even when mouth is closed; in adults, pale triangle and a light blue interruped line below the eye; no dark spot on body under dorsal fin.OFFSHORE in warm waters.Common to 30 pounds.One of the fastest-growing fish, thought to live no more than 5 years; swimming speed estimated at 50 knots; spawns in warm oceanic currents throughout much of the year; young found in sargassum weed; feeds on flying fish and squid.
Fantail Mullethttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/FANTAILMullet-optimized.pngColor olive green with blue tints on back, shading to silvery sides, white below; anal and pelvic fins yellowish; dark blotch at base of pectoral fin; inverted V-shaped mouth; insertion of second dorsal fin over that of the anal fin.INSHORE, occurring along beaches in the fall.Small mullet, less than 1 pound.Spawns in NEARSHORE or possibly INSHORE waters during spring and summer; juveniles occur INSHORE; feeds on algae, small crustaceans, detritus.
Fat Snookhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/FatSnook-optimized.pngDeeper body than other snooks; color yellow-brown to green-brown above, silvery on sides; black lateral line extends onto tail; mouth reaches to or beyond center of eye; usually no dusky outer edge on pelvic fin, as in other snooks; smallest scales of all snook.INSHORE species found in mangrove habitiat; found commonly in fresh water; occurs more in interior waters ( as opposed to estuarine waters ) than other snook.A small species, rarely more than 20 inches.Usually found in fresh water; mangrove shorelines serve as nursery grounds for young.
Pompanohttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/pompano-optimized.pngGreenish gray on back, shading to silvery sides; fish in dark waters showing gold on throat, pelvic, and anal fins; deep flattened body with small mouth; no scutes; 22 to 27 soft dorsal rays; 20 to 23 soft anal rays; origin of anal fin slightly behind origin of second dorsal.INSHORE and NEARSHORE waters, especially along sandy beaches, along oyster bars, and over grassbeds, often in turbid water; may be found in water as deep as 130 feet.Usually less than 3 pounds.Spawns OFFSHORE between March and September; feeds on mollusks and crustaceans, especially sand fleas; local movements are influenced by the tide, and seasonal movements are influenced by temperature.
Gag Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/gag-optimized.pngBrownish gray in color with dark worm-like markings on sides; strong serrated spur at bottom margin of preopercle, less noticeable in large specimens; fins dark, with anal and caudal having white margin. Often confused with Black Grouper; most noticeable differences are brassy spots on Black Grouper; tail of Gag is slightly concave, black is square; Gag has white margin on anal and caudal fins, black does not; under 10 pounds, Gag?s spur on preopercle is distincive, where black is gently roundedAdults OFFSHORE over rocks and reefs; juveniles occur in seagrass beds INSHORE.Common to 25 pounds.Forms spawning aggregations in water no shallower than 120 feet in Middle Grounds area. January through March; current research to identify similar aggregations off the Atlantic coast is on going. Young Gags are predominantly female, transforming into males as they grow larger; feeds on fish and squid.
Goliath Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/jewfish-optimized.pngHead and fins covered with small black spots; irregular dark vertical bars present on the sides of body; pectoral and caudal fins rounded; first dorsal fin shorted than and not separated from second dorsal; adults hugh, upto 800 pounds; eyes small.NEARSHORE around docks, in deep holes, and on ledges; young often occur in estuaries, especially around oyster bars; more abundant in southern Florida than in northern waters.Largest of the groupers.Spawns over summer months; lifespan of 30 to 50 years; feeds on crustaceans and fish. NOTE: Jewfish are totally protected from harvest in Florida waters.
Gray Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/graySnapper-optimized.pngColor dark brown or gray with reddish or orange spots in rows along the sides; dark horizontal band from snout through eye (young only); two conspicuous canine teeth at front of upper jaw; dorsal fins have dark or reddish borders; no dark spot on side underneath dorsal fin.Juveniles INSHORE in tidal creeks, mangroves, and grass beds; adults generally NEARSHORE or OFFSHORE on coral or rocky reefs.OFFSHORE catches common 8 to 10 pounds.Spawns June through August; feeds on crustaceans and small fish. Also known as “Mangrove Snapper”.
Greater Amberjackhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/greateramberjack-optimized.pngDark stripe (variably present) extends from nose to in front of dorsal fin and "lights up" when fish is in feeding mode; no scutes; soft dorsal base less than twice the length of the anal fin base.OFFSHORE species associated with rocky reefs, debris, and wrecks, typically in 60-240 feet of water; sometimes caught NEARSHORE in south Florida; juveniles associate with floating objects and may occur in water less than 30 feet deep.Common to 40 pounds.Largest of the jacks; thought to spawn OFFSHORE throughout much of the year; feeds on squid, fish, and crustaceans.
Gulf Flounderhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Flounder-optimized.pngBody color brown, its shade depending on color bottom, with numerous spots and blotches; 3 prominent eye-like spots forming a triangle; one spot on lateral line, one above, one below; numerous white spots scattered over body and fins; strong canine-like teeth; caudal fin in shape of wedge, its tip in the middle.INSHORE on sandy or mud bottoms, often ranging into title creeks; occasionally caught on NEARSHORE rocky reefs.Common to 2 pounds, generally smaller than southern flounder.Hatches into usual fish form, but right eye migrates over to left side early in life; a bottom dweller; thought to spawn offshore; feeds on crustaceans and small fish.
King Mackerelhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/kingmackerel-optimized.pngColor of black iridescent bluish green, sides silvery; streamlined body with tapered head; no black pigment on front of the first dorsal fin; lateral line starts high and drops sharply below the second dorsal; young fish often have yellowish spots like those of Spanish mackerel.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE; occasionally taken from piers running into deep water.Common to 20 pounds.Schooling fish that migrates from south Florida waters in winter to more northerly waters in spring; Gulf population thought to be separate from Atlantic population, with considerable mixing in winter from Cape Canaveral past Key West; spawns in midsummer OFFSHORE; feeds on fish and squid.
LadyFishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/LadyFish-optimized.pngTerminal mouth; slender body; small scales; last dorsal ray not elongated; head small and pointed.INSHORE fish, in bays and estuaries; occasionally enters freshwater, occuring in tidal pools and canals; often forms large schools and harasses bait at the surface.2 to 3 pounds.Known to spawn OFFSHORE; ribbon-like larvae very similar to Albula and Egalops, peaking in fall; adults feed predominantly on fish and crustaceans; leaps when hooked.
Lane Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/lanesnapper-optimized.pngColor silvery-pink to reddish with short, irregular pink and yellow lines on its sides; diffuse black spot, about as large as the eye; the dorsal fin centered above the lateral line; outer margin of caudal fin blackish.Juveniles INSHORE over grass beds or shallow reefs; adults OFFSHORE; most common in south Florida.Usually less than 1 pound.Spawns March to September, sexually mature at 6 inches; feeds on the bottom, taking crustaceans, mollusks, and fish.
Lesser Amberjackhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/lesseramberjack-optimized.pngOlive green or brownish back and silver sides; dark band (variably present) extends backward and upward from eye; juveniles have split or wavy bars on sides; proportionately larger eye and deeper body than Greater Amberjack.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE, apparently living deeper than other Seriola (commonly 180-410 feet deep).Usually under 10 pounds.Smallest of the Amberjacks; believed to spawn offshore; adults eat fish, and squid.
Longbill Spearfishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/longbill-optimized.pngOlive green or brownish back and silver sides; dark band (variably present) extends backward and upward from eye; juveniles have split or wavy bars on sides; proportionately larger eye and deeper body than Greater Amberjack.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE, apparently living deeper than other Seriola (commonly 180-410 feet deep).Usually under 10 pounds.Smallest of the Amberjacks; believed to spawn offshore; adults eat fish, and squid.
Mohogany Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/MohoganySnapper-optimized.pngOlive green or brownish back and silver sides; dark band (variably present) extends backward and upward from eye; juveniles have split or wavy bars on sides; proportionately larger eye and deeper body than Greater Amberjack.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE, apparently living deeper than other Seriola (commonly 180-410 feet deep).Usually under 10 pounds.Smallest of the Amberjacks; believed to spawn offshore; adults eat fish, and squid.
Mutton Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/muttonsnapper-optimized.pngColored olive green on back and upper sides, all fins below lateral line having reddish tinge; bright blue line below eye, following contour of operculum; anal fin pointed; small black spot below dorsal fin; V-shaped tooth patch on roof of mouth.AN INSHORE species associated with grass beds, mangroves, and canals; larger adults occasionally found on OFFSHORE reefs.Common to 15 poundsSpawns in July and August; feeds on fish, crustaceans, and snails.
Nassau Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/nassauGrouper-optimized.pngColor light background with brown or red-brown bars on sides; stripe in shape of tuning fork on forehead; third spine of dorsal longer than second; pelvic fins shorter than pectorals; black dots around eyes; large black saddle on caudal peduncle.Range limited to south Florida; somewhat site specific; smaller individuals NEARSHORE, adults OFFSHORE on rocky reefs.Most catches under 10 pounds.Forms large spawning aggregations, making this species highly vulnerable to overharvest. NOTE: all hervest of this species is prohibited.
Palometahttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/palometa-optimized.pngGrayish-blue-green on top of head and along the back; bright slivery sides; yellow on breast; elongated dorsal and anal fins, dusky or black with bluish edges; deep body, with four narrow bars high on the sides, and traces of a fifth nearer the tail; no scutes.In clear water along sandy beaches, and bays, occasionally found over reefs; most common in south Florida.Rarely over 1 pound, reported to 3 pounds.Thought to spawn offshore in spring, summer, and fall; has shown rapid growth in mariculture experiments; readily strikes small artificial lures.
Permithttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/permit-optimized.pngColor gray, dark or iridescent blue above, shading to silvery sides, in dark waters showing golden tints around breast; small permit have teeth on tongue (none on Pompano); no scutes; dorsal fin insertion directly above that of the anal fin; 17 to 21 soft dorsal rays; 16 to 19 soft anal rays.OFFSHORE on wrecks and debris, INSHORE on grass flats, sand flats, and in channels; most abundant in south Florida, with smaller specimens from every coastal county.Common to 25 pounds.Feeds mainly on bottom-dwelling crabs, shrimp, small clams, and small fish.
Queen Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/queensnapper-optimized.pngColor of back and upper sides red. lower sides; silvery body long and slender; dorsal fin distinctly notched; large eyes; caudal fin deeply forked; no dark lateral spot.OFFSHORE over rocky reefs of the continental shelf to 450 feet; young suspend at mid-depths.Small species, usually less than 20 inches.Little is known, but it is reported that adults live at depths greater than 400 feet.
Red Drumhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/reddrum-optimized.pngChin without barbels; copper-brozne body; lighter shade in clear waters; one to many spots at base of tail (rarely no spots); mouth horizontal and opening downward; scales large.Juveniles are an INSHORE fish; migrating out of the estuaries at about 30 inches (4 years) and joining the spawing population OFFSHORE.One about 27 inches weighs about 8 pounds.Spawning occurs from August to Novermber in NEARSHORE waters; sudden cold snaps may kill red drum in shallow, INSHORE waters; feeds on crustaceans, fish and mollusks; longevity to 20 years or more.
Red Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/redgrouper-optimized.pngColor brownish-red; lining of mouth scarlet-orange; blotches on sides in unorganized pattern; second spine of dorsal fin longer than others; pectoral fins longer than pelvic fins; squared-off tail; margin of soft dorsal black and white at midfin; black dots around the eyes.Bottom dwelling fish associated with hard bottom; juveniles OFFSHORE along with adults greater than 6 years old; fish from 1 to 6 years old occupy NEARSHORE reefs.Common to 15 pounds.Spawns in April and May; prefers water temperatures between 66 and 77°F; undergoes sex reversal, young individuals female, becoming male as they age; lifespan of at least 25 years; feeds on squid, crustaceans, and fish.
Red Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/redsnapper-optimized.pngColor pinkish red over entire body, whitish below; long triangular snout; anal fin sharply pointed; no dark lateral spot.OFFSHORE on the continental shelf, more plentiful off the Panhandle than in south or middle Florida.Upto 20 pounds.Juveniles occur over sandy or mu bottoms and are often taken in shrimp trawls; adults may live more than 20 years, and attain 35 pounds or more; sexual maturity attained at age 2; spawns June to October; feeds on crustaceans and fish.
Rock Sea Basshttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/rockseabass-optimized.pngColor olive-brown or bronze, with dark blotches forming vertical bars; dark black blotche on middle of dorsal-fin base; tip of lower jaw purplish; bright blue and orange stripes and markings on head and fins; fully scaled nape; tail tri-lobed in adults.OFFSHORE; differs from other sea basses in that it is often found on sandy or muddy bottoms.Small species, rarely more than 10 inches.Spawns January through March; young adults are predominantly female, transforming into males as they grow older; maximum size is about 10 inches.
Sailfishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/sailfish-optimized.pngColor dark blue on top, brown-blue laterally, silvery white underbelly; upper jaw elongated in for of spear; first dorsal greatly enlarged in the form of a sail, with many black spots, its front squared off, highest at midpoint; pelvic fins very narrow, reaching almost to the anus; body covered with imbedded scales, blunt at end; lateral line curved over pectoral, then straight to base of tail.OFFSHORE species, in south Florida associated with waters near Gulf Stream; off the panhandle near the 100-fathom line.Common to 7 feet.Rapid growing species, reaching 4 to 5 feet in a single year; swims at speeds up to 50 knots; feeds on the surface or at mid-depths on smaller pelagic fish and squid.
Sand Sea Trouthttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/sandseatrout-optimized.pngPale body color, yellow above, silver to white below; one or two prominent canine teeth usually at the tip of upper jaw; inside of mouth yellow;no well-defined black spots on back; 10 to 12 soft rays in anal fin; no chin barbels.A Gulf species, that may occur in the Atlantic waters of extreme southeastern Florida; adults predominantly found INSHORE residing in bays and inlets, but may move OFFSHORE during winter months; young occur INSHORE in shallow bays. Usually less than 1 pound (10-12 inches). Matures during first or second year; prolonged inshore spawning season extends through spring and summer; feeds mainly on small fish and shrimp.
Scalloped Hammerheadhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/scalloped-optimized.pngfifth gill slit shorter than 4 preceding ones and located posterior to pectoral fin base; flattened head extending to hammer-like lobes on each side; distinct indentation of the front margin of the head at its midpoint;Both OFFSHORE and INSHORE.Commonly 6 feet and can reach 14 feet.Predatory fish, feeding mainly on fish squid, and stingrays; male matures at about 6 feet in length.
Scamphttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/scamp-optimized.pngColor light gray or brown; large adults with elongated caudal-fin rays; reddish-brown spots on sides that tend to be grouped into lines; some yellow around corners of mouth.NEARSHORE reefs off the northeastern coast, and on OFFSHORE reefs in the Gulf.Generally smaller than Gags or Blacks.Spawns in late spring; feeds on small fish, squid, and crustaceans; undergoes sex transformation from female to male as it becomes older.
Schoolmasterhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/schoolmaster-optimized.pngColor olive gray on upper sides with yellow tinge, sometimes with reddish tinge around head; long triangular snout; eight pale vertical bars on the side of the body; yellow fins; blue stripe below eye, becoming interrupted in adults; no dark lateral spot.Juveniles in grass flats; adults NEARSHORE especially around elkhorn coral reefs; large adults sometimes found on continental shelf.Usually less than 1 pound.Spawns July and August; attains sizes of 8 pounds and 24 inches; slow grower; feeds on crustaceans, small fish, and gastropods.
Sheepsheadhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/sheepshead-optimized.pngBasic silvery color, with 5 or 6 distinct vertical black bands on sides, not always the same on both sides; prominent teeth, including incisors, molars, and rounded grinders; no barbels on lower jaw; strong and sharp spines on dorsal and anal fins.INSHORE species around oyster bars, seawalls and in tidal creeks; moves NEARSHORE in late winter and early spring for spawning, gathering over debris, artificial reefs, and around navigation markers.INSHORE, 1 to 2 pounds; OFFSHORE common to 8 pounds.Feeds on mollusks and crustaceans such as fiddler crabs and barnicles; famed nibblers, prompting the saying “anglers must strike just before they bite.”
Shortfin Makohttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/shortfin-optimized.pngLunate tail with similarly sized lobes; lateral keel at the base of the tail; deep blue back and white underside; underside of sharply pointed snout white; origin of first dorsal entirely behind base of pectoral fins; second dorsal fin slightly in front of anal fin; slender, recurved teeth with smooth edges.OFFSHORE fish often seen near the surface. Commonly 6 to 8 feet ( 200 - 300 pounds ).Active, strong swimming fish known for leaping out of the water when hooked; feeds on mackerel, tuna, sardines, and some much larger fish.
Silk Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/silksnapper-optimized.pngBack and upper sides pinkish red, shading to silvery sides with undulating yellow lines; pecorals pale yellow; back edge of caudal fin blackish; anal fin pointed; no dark lateral spot. OFFSHORE over rocky ledges in very deep water; most common is south Florida.Usually less than 5 pounds.Little is known.
Silver Sea Trouthttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/silverseatrout-optimized.pngPale straw colored above, silvery sides and white below; no distinctive pigmentation, although faint diagonal lines may be present on upper body; 8 to9 rays in the anal fin; large eyes; short snout; one or two prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw; lower half of tail longer than upper half.Most common over sand or sandy mud bottoms OFFSHORE along both the Gulf and the Atlantic coasts of Florida; migrates into bays during cold months.Usually no more than 1/2 pound (less than 10 inches) Smallest seatrout; spawns OFFSHORE in deep water during spring, summer, and fall; feeds on small fish and shrimp.
Silver Perchhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/silverperch-optimized.pngColor silvery with yellowish fins; no spots; no chin barbels; no prominent canine teeth at tip of of upper jaw: preopercle finely serrated; 5 to 6 chin pores; mouth terminal.INSHORE in seagrass beds, tidal creeks and rivers, and marshes.Small, not exceeding 9 inches.Spawning takes place in shallow, saline portions of bays and other INSHORE areas, peaking between May and September; matures by second or third year (by 6 inches); adults eat crustaceans and small fish; may live to 6 years.
Spanish Mackerelhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/spanishmackerel-optimized.png Color of back green, shading to silver on sides, golden yellow irregular spots above and below lateral line; front dorsal fin black; lateral line curves gently to base of tail. INSHORE, NEARSHORE, and OFFSHORE, especially over deep grass beds and reefs; absent from north Florida waters in winter.Average catch less than 2 pounds (20 inches).Schooling fish that migrate northward in spring, returning to southerly waters when water temperatures drop below 70° F; spawns OFFSHORE, spring through summer; feeds on small fish and squid.
Spotted Sea Trouthttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/spottedseatrout-optimized.pngDark gray or green above, with sky-blue tinges shading to silvery and white below; numerous distinct round black spots on back, extending to the dorsal fins and tail; black margin on posterior of tail; no barbels; no scales on the soft dorsal fin; one or two prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw. INSHORE and /or NEARSHORE over grass, sand, and sandy mud bottoms; move into shallow waters in cold weather.Common to 4 pounds on west coast, larger on east coast.Matures during first or second year and spawns INSHORE from March through November, often in association with seagrass beds; lives mainly in estuaries and moves only short distances; adults feed mainly on shrimp and small fish; prefers water temperatures between 58 and 81° F, and may be killed if trapped in shallow water during cold weather; longevity 8 to 10 years.
Striped (Black) Mullethttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/stripedmullet-optimized.pngColor bluish-gray or green above, shading to silver on sides, with indistinct horizontal black barrings, white below; fins lightly scaled at base, unscaled above; blunt nose and small mouth; second dorsal fin originates behind that of the anal fin.INSHORERoe mullet common to 3 pounds but in aquariums known to reach 12 pounds or more.Adults migrate OFFSHORE in large schools to spawn; juveniles migrate INSHORE at about 1 inch in size, moving far up title creeks; frequent leapers; feeds on algae, detritus, and other tiny marine forms.
Swordfishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/swordfish-optimized.pngColor of back variable, black, grayish blue, brown, metallic purple, or bronze; sides dusty; underbelly dirty white; long, flat, sword-like upper jaw; lacks scales, teeth, and pelvic fins; single keel on each side of body in front of tail; first dorsal fin high, rigid and short; large eyes. OFFSHORE worldwide species in temperate and tropical; known to frequent depths of 400 to 500 fathoms; also has been seen basking at the surface. Once averaged 200 pounds, but over harvest has reduced size of commercially caught swordfish to average 48 inches. Large swordfish are all females, males seldom exceeding 200 pounds except when spawning, females believed to prefer water cooler than that favored by males; feeds on squid, octopus, and pelagic fishes of all kinds.
Swordspine Snookhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/SwordSpineSnook-optimized.pngSmallest of the snooks; profile slightly concave; prominent lateral line outlined in black ( not solid ), extends above, silvery below; giant second anal spine, hence the name; largest scales of all snook.Occurs in INSHORE estuarine habitats from south Florida as far north on the east coast as St. Lucie River.usually less than 1 pound ( 12 inches).Occurs in INSHORE estuarine habitats from south Florida as far north on the east coast as St. Lucie River.
Tarpon Snookhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/TarponSnook-optimized.pngOnly snook with 7 anal fin rays ( others have 6 ); lower jaw curves upward; compressed body; prominent black lateral line extends through tail; tips of pelvic fins reach beyond anus. INSHORE in south Florida; frequently in fresh water.Usually less than 1 pound ( 12 inches ).Maximum size of 16 to 18 inches; feeds on small fish and larger crustaceans; young are nurtured along mangrove shorelines; rare on Florida’s west coast.
Tarponhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Tarpon-optimized.pngLast ray of dorsal fin extended into long filament; one dorsal fin; back dark blue to green or greenish black, shading into bright silver on sides; may be brownish gold in estuarine waters; huge scales; mouth large and points upward.Primarily INSHORE fish, although adult fish spawn OFFSHORE where the ribbon-like larval stage of the fish can be found.Most angler catches 40 - 50 pounds.Slow grower, matures at 7 to 13 years of age; spawning occurs between May and September; female may lay more than 12 million eggs; can tolerate wide range of salinity; juveniles commonly found in fresh water; can breathe air at the surface; feeds mainly on fish and large crustaceans.
Vermillion Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/vermilion-optimized.pngColor of entire body reddish, with a series of short, irregular lines on its sides, diagonal blue lines formed by spots on the scales above the lateral line; sometimes with yellow streaks below the lateral line; large canine teeth absent; orientation of mouth and eye give it the appearance of looking upward; no dark lateral spot.Suspends at mid-depths over rocky reefs OFFSHORE.Usually less than 1 pound.Spawns April to September; females maturing at 3 to 4 years of age; grows slowly; attains a weight of 6 pounds and length of 24 inches; feeds on small, swimming crustaceans and mollusks.
Weakfishhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/weakfish-optimized.png Dark olive or blue-green back; sides covered in tones of blue, purple, lavender, gold, and copper; irregular diagonal rows of vaguely-defined dark spots appear above the lateral line; 1 to 2 prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw; black margin on tip of the tongue; pelvic and anal fins yellow; pectoral fins olive on outside, yellow underneath; mouth yellow inside.An Atlantic coast fish, possibly found in the extreme southeastern Gulf; adults move INSHORE and north during warm months inhabiting the surf, inlet bays, channels, and estuaries; adults move OFFSHORE and south during cold months; juveniles inhabit estuaries which serve as nurseries. 2 to 3 pounds. May mature as early as age 1; spawns in NEARSHORE or estuarine areas between April and October; schooling fish; feeds primarily on shrimp and fish.
White Marlinhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/whitemarlin-optimized.pngColor of body dark blue to chocolate brown, shading to silvery white underbelly; noticeable spots on dorsal fin; upper jaw elongated in shape of spear; body covered with embedded scales with a single sharp point; tips of dorsal, pectoral, and first anal fins rounded; lateral line curved above pectoral fin, then going in straight line to base of tail.OFFSHORE, a blue water fish.Common to 8 feet.Uses its bill to stun fast-moving fish, then turns to consume them; spawning procedures unknown; ranges throughout the Atlantic and Caribbean; feeds on squid and pelagic fish.
White Grunthttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/grunt-optimized.pngBody color light bluish-gray, head with horizontal blue stripes, white underbelly; black blotch on peropercle; margin of each scale bronze; large bright orange mouth; scales above leteral line larger than scales below lateral line.From SHORE to the outer reef edge or on OFFSHORE hard bottom to 115 feet; most abundant in water less than 80 feet deep; juveniles INSHORE. Most catches 1.5 pounds (15 inches).Audible grunting is produced by grinding of the pharyngeal teeth, with air bladder acting as amplifier; spawning occurs on OFFSHORE hard bottoms or reefs from May through June; feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.
Yellowfin Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/yellowfingrouper-optimized.pngColor highly variable greenish olive or bright red with longitudinal rows of darker black blotches over entire fish; outer one-third of pectoral fins bright yellow; lower parts of larger fish with small bright red spots.OFFSHORE on reefs off southern portions of Florida.Common to 20 pounds.Undergoes sex reversal from female to male in latter part of life; specific name translates to “venomous”, alluding to the fact that this fish, perhaps more frequently than other groupers, is associated with ciguatera poisoning; feeds on fish and squid.
Yellowmouth Grouperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/yellowmouthgrouper-optimized.pngColor tan or brown with darker spots; spots, or a network of spots, fused into lines; distinct yellow was behind the jaws; yellow around the eyes; outer edges of fins yellowish.OFFSHORE over reefs and rocks; not as common as Scamp in the Gulf; range limited to southern Florida.Common to 15 poundsUndergoes sex reversal, young individuals female, older individuals becoming male; young fish are bi-colored, dark above white below; feeds on small fish and crustaceans.
Yellowtail Snapperhttps://southwestflorida.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/yellowsnapper-optimized.pngBack and upper sides olive to bluish with yellow spots; lower sides and belly with alternating narrow, longitudinal pink and yellow stripes; prominent midlateral yellow stripe begins at mouth and runs to tail, broadening as it passes the dorsal fins; caudal fin yellow and deeply forked; no dark lateral spot. Juveniles INSHORE on grassbeds and back reefs; adults NEARSHORE or OFFSHORE over sandy areas near reefs.Common to 3 pounds.Found mainly in tropical waters; spawns in midsummer; rarely exceeds 30 inches and 5 pounds in size; feeds on small fish and invertebrates.

Southwest Florida Fish Search

Fish NameDescriptionWhere FoundSizeRemarksImage
Almaco JackA deep-bodied amberjack; sometimes darker in coloration; front of soft dorsal and of anal fins high and elongated; body more flattened than banded rudderfish or greater amberjack; no scutes.Wide-ranging in OFFSHORE waters, not a common catch; young are associated with Sargassum.Usually less than 20 pounds.Spawns offshore, apparently during spring, summer, and fall.View Fish
American ShadColor of back green or greenish blue with metallic lustre; silvery sides, white underneath 9 colors darken when fish enters fresh water to spawn); belly with scutes forming distinct keel; one or more dark spots in a row behind operculum; lower jaw with pointed tip that fits into v-shaped notch in upper jaw.OFFSHORE except during late winter spawning run into east coast rivers, notably the St. Johns River.Most catches 2 to 3 pounds; common to 5 poundsAnadromous species, coming into fresh water to spawn; young remain in fresh water to length of 2 to 4 inches, then move out to sea; plankton feeder, but strikes small, bright spoons or flies; their roe ( as many as 30,000 in a single female ) is prized, the flesh full of fork bones.View Fish
Atlantic Sharpnose SharkLong and flattened snout; white trailing edge of pectoral; black-edged dorsal and caudal fins, especially when young; may have small whitish spots on sides; furrows in lips at the corners of the mouth; outer margin of teeth notched; second dorsal fin originates over middle of anal fin; brown to olive-gray in color with white inderside; slender body.INSHORE species, even found in surf; also common in bays and estuaries; adults occur OFFSHORE.A small species, 2 ? 4 feet.Mature adults between 2 and 2.75 feet long; 4-7 newborns range from 9 to 14 inches in length; adults feed on small fish and crustaceans.View Fish
Atlantic CroakerInferior mouth; 3 to 5 pairs of small barbels on chin; silvery-gray or bronze body with dark oblique wavy bars or lines; iridescent especially on head; preopercle strongly serrated.Generally found north of Tampa Bay on the west coast, and north of Cape Canaveral on the east coast; young fish found in estuaries; older fish (2 to 3 years) inhabit deep OFFSHORE waters during the winter months and move into bays and estuaries during the spring, summer, and fall.Usually less than 2 pounds.During spawning becomes bronze or yellow in color; spawning apparently occurs OFFSHORE in fall; longevity 2 to 4 years.View Fish
Atlantic SpadefishSilvery with 4 to 6 black vertical bands on each side which sometimes become obscure in larger fish; deep, flattened body; separated first and second dorsal fins; concave caudal fin; anterior rays of second dorsal fin and anal fin elongated.INSHORE and NEARSHORE, around natural reefs, and especially near navigation markers in 15 to 20 feet of water.Most catches less than 2 pounds, known to reach 15 pounds.Spawns in spring and summer; travels in large schools; small juveniles almost totally black, known to drift on their sides and mimic floating debris; feeds on crustaceans, small encrusting invertebrates, and may nibble on tentacles of jellyfish.View Fish
Banded RudderfishFish is less than 11 inches long; has dark band from eye to first dorsal fin and six prominent bars on body; larger fish are bluish, greenish, or brown; soft dorsal base about twice the length of the anal fin; tail-lobe white tipped.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE over hard bottom, generally in shallower water than other amberjacks; young associated with weed lines or floating debris and may follow shark and other large fish.Usually less than 10 pounds.Adults feed on fish and shrimp; spawns OFFSHORE most of the year.View Fish
Bank Sea BassPale olive or brassy brown in color with indistinct black blotches that form vertical barrings ( the blotch above pectoral fin darker ); wavy blue lines on head; lips purplish-blue; caudal fin tri-lobed on adults; edge of nape unscaled.OFFSHORE in deep water with rocks and reefs.Usually 0.3 pounds ( 8 inches).Undergoes sex change, starting life as a female, changing into male after 3 or 4 spawning seasons; feeds on the bottom, taking squid, crustaceans, and small fish.View Fish
Black GrouperOlive or gray body coloration with black blotches and brassy spots; gently rounded preopercle. OFFSHORE species; adults associated with rocky bottoms. reef, and drop-off walls in water over 60 feet deep; young may occur INSHORE in shallow water.OFFSHORE species; adults associated with rocky bottoms. reef, and drop-off walls in water over 60 feet deep; young may occur INSHORE in shallow water.Common to 40 pounds, may attain weights exceeding 100 pounds. No Florida record because of identity confusion with Gag, which are mistakenly called ?Black Grouper?.Spawns between May and August; protogynous hermaphrodites, young predominantly female, transforming into males as they grow older; larger individuals generally in greater depths; feeds on fish and squid.View Fish
Black DrumHigh arched back; 10 to 14 pairs of chin barbels; gray or black colored body in adults; young have 4 to 6 vertical bars; has cobblestone-like teeth capable of crushing oysters; large scales.INSHORE fish common to bays and lagoons; bottom dweller often found around oyster beds; also OFFSHORE.Common to 30 pounds.INSHORE fish common to bays and lagoons; bottom dweller often found around oyster beds; also OFFSHORE.View Fish
Blackfin SnapperColor generally red, with yellow caudal, anal, and pelvic fins; distinctive and prominent dark comma-shapped blotch at the base of the pectoral fins; which gives the fish its common name; anal fin rounded; no black spot on side underneath dorsal fin.Adults OFFSHORE near cintinental shelf.Common to 20 inches, larger individuals seeking deeper waters.Sometimes marketed as red snapper; feeds on smaller fish.View Fish
Blue RunnerColor light olive to bluish green above, silvery gray to golden below; frequently black spot on operculum; readily distinguished from Crevalle Jack by lack of dark blotch on pectoral fin; tail tips blackish.Juveniles found OFFSHORE; adults NEARSHORE in schools, but sometimes ranging INSHORE as well.Usually less than 1 pound (11 inches).Matures by 9 to 10 inches; spawns OFFSHORE from January through August; young form schools associated with floating objects, and have been observed living inside the bell of jellyfish; adults feed on fish, shrimp, and squid.View Fish
Blue MarlinColor cobalt blue on top shading to silvery white on bottom; upper jaw elongated in form of spear; dorsal fin and pointed at front end; pectoral fin and anal fin pointed; lateral line reticulated (interwoven like a net), difficult to see in large specimens; no dark spots on dorsal fin; body covered with imbedded scales ending in one or two sharp points.OFFSHORE, a blue water fishLargest of the Atlantic marlins, common to 11 feet, known to exceed 2,000 pounds.All of trophy size are females; males do not exceed 300 pounds; make trans-Atlantic migration; spawning procedures unknown; feeds on squid and pelagic fish, including blackfin tuna and frigate mackerel.View Fish
BlueFishColor blue or greenish-blue on back, sides silvery; mouth large; teeth prominent, sharp. and compressed; dorsal and anal fins nearly the same size; scales small; lateral line almost straight.Young usually INSHORE spring and summer; moving OFFSHORE to join adults fall and winter; strong migration of northeast Atlantic stock to Florida east coast in winter.Most west coast catches under 3 pounds, much larger on east coast.Travels in large schools, following schools of baitfish; cannibalistic; all members of a given school about the same size; spawning occurs OFFSHORE in spring and summer.View Fish
BoneFishSilvery color with bluish or greenish back; slender, round body; snout long, conical, aiming downward and overhanging lower jaw; dark streaks between scales on upper half of body and faint crossbands extending down to lateral line; extremities of dorsal and caudal fins shaded with black.Primarily INSHORE fish inhabiting shallows of the Florida Keys; found in shallows often less than 1 foot deep, usually over lush grass flats, occasionally over white sand.3 to 5 pounds.Travels in loose schools; roots out shrimp, shellfish, crabs, and fish from the bottom; spawns offshore, eggs hatching into ribbon-like larvae that metamorphose into fish-like form at about 2 inches and move inshore.View Fish
BonnetHead SharkBroadly widened head in the shape of a shovel; only slight indentation of anal fin; front of head not notched at midline; gray or grayish-brown in color.INSHORE species found in bays and estuaries.Commonly 3 to 4 feet.Matures at about 3 feet in length and bears 6 to 12 young at one time. Feeds chiefly on crabs and other crustaceans.View Fish
Cero MackerelColor of black iridescent bluish green; sides silvery; yellow spots forming lines above and below a bronze stripe from pectoral fin to base of the tail; front of first dorsal is bluish black; lateral line curves gradually to base of caudal fin.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE fish occurring mainly in south Florida, especially over coral reefs and wrecks.Common to 5 pounds.Unlike other mackerel, does not stray far from Florida waters; spawns OFFSHORE in midsummer; feeds on small fish and squid.View Fish
CobiaLong, slim fish with broad depressed head; lower jaw projects passed upper jaw; dark lateral stripe extends through eye to tail; first dorsal fin comprised of 7 to 9 free spines; when young, has conspicuous alternating black and white horizontal stripes.Both INSHORE and OFFSHORE inhabiting inlets, bays, and among mangroves; frequently seen around buoys, pilings and wreaks.Common to 30 pounds.Spawns in spring and early summer; feeds on crabs, squid, and small fish.View Fish
Common SnookDistict black lateral line; high, divided dorsal fin; sloping forehead; large mouth, protruding lower jaw; grows much larger than other snooks; pelvic fin yellow.From central Florida south, usually INSHORE in coastal and brackish waters, along mangrove shorelines, seawalls, and bridges; also on reefs and pilings NEARSHORE.Most catches 5 to 8 pounds.Spawns primarily in summer; cannot tolerate water temperatures below 60? F; can tolerate wholly fresh or saltwater; schools along shore and in passes during spawning season; feeds on fish and larger crustaceans.View Fish
Crevalle JackColor bluish-green to greenish-gold back and silvery or yellowish belly; soft dorsal and anal fins almost identical in size; prominent black spot on operculum (gill cover); black spot at the base of each pectoral fin; no scales on throat.Common in both INSHORE waters and the open sea.Usually 3 to 5 pounds.Tolerates a wide range of salinities; schools corner a school of baitfish at the surface and feed with commotion that can be seen for great distances; feeds mainly on small fish; peak spawning occurs OFFSHORE from March through September.View Fish
Cubera SnapperColor dark brown or gray, may have a reddish tinge; broad-based triangular tooth patch on roof of mouth without posterior extension; despite its specific name, which translates to ?blue-fin?, the fin have only a slight tinge of blue; canine teeth on both jaws very strong; one pair of canines enlarged and visible even when mouth is closed.Juveniles INSHORE in grassbeds; adults OFFSHORE or NEARSHORE over wrecks, reefs, and ledges.Common to 40 pounds.The largest of the snappers, ranging to 125 pounds; not common anywhere in its range; feeds on fish and larger crustaceans; in the Keys, spawns during later summer.View Fish
Dog SnapperColor brown with a bronze tinge, lighter on sides; canine teeth very sharp, one pair notable enlarged, visible even when mouth is closed; in adults, pale triangle and a light blue interruped line below the eye; no dark spot on body under dorsal fin.Large adults OFFSHORE over coral and rocky reefs; juveniles associated with estuaries.Large snapper; attaing 30 pounds.Spawns from spring through fall; known as night feeder; taking fish, mollusks, and crustaceans.View Fish
Dog SnapperColor brown with a bronze tinge, lighter on sides; canine teeth very sharp, one pair notable enlarged, visible even when mouth is closed; in adults, pale triangle and a light blue interruped line below the eye; no dark spot on body under dorsal fin.OFFSHORE in warm waters.Common to 30 pounds.One of the fastest-growing fish, thought to live no more than 5 years; swimming speed estimated at 50 knots; spawns in warm oceanic currents throughout much of the year; young found in sargassum weed; feeds on flying fish and squid.View Fish
Fantail MulletColor olive green with blue tints on back, shading to silvery sides, white below; anal and pelvic fins yellowish; dark blotch at base of pectoral fin; inverted V-shaped mouth; insertion of second dorsal fin over that of the anal fin.INSHORE, occurring along beaches in the fall.Small mullet, less than 1 pound.Spawns in NEARSHORE or possibly INSHORE waters during spring and summer; juveniles occur INSHORE; feeds on algae, small crustaceans, detritus.View Fish
Fat SnookDeeper body than other snooks; color yellow-brown to green-brown above, silvery on sides; black lateral line extends onto tail; mouth reaches to or beyond center of eye; usually no dusky outer edge on pelvic fin, as in other snooks; smallest scales of all snook.INSHORE species found in mangrove habitiat; found commonly in fresh water; occurs more in interior waters ( as opposed to estuarine waters ) than other snook.A small species, rarely more than 20 inches.Usually found in fresh water; mangrove shorelines serve as nursery grounds for young.View Fish
PompanoGreenish gray on back, shading to silvery sides; fish in dark waters showing gold on throat, pelvic, and anal fins; deep flattened body with small mouth; no scutes; 22 to 27 soft dorsal rays; 20 to 23 soft anal rays; origin of anal fin slightly behind origin of second dorsal.INSHORE and NEARSHORE waters, especially along sandy beaches, along oyster bars, and over grassbeds, often in turbid water; may be found in water as deep as 130 feet.Usually less than 3 pounds.Spawns OFFSHORE between March and September; feeds on mollusks and crustaceans, especially sand fleas; local movements are influenced by the tide, and seasonal movements are influenced by temperature.View Fish
Gag GrouperBrownish gray in color with dark worm-like markings on sides; strong serrated spur at bottom margin of preopercle, less noticeable in large specimens; fins dark, with anal and caudal having white margin. Often confused with Black Grouper; most noticeable differences are brassy spots on Black Grouper; tail of Gag is slightly concave, black is square; Gag has white margin on anal and caudal fins, black does not; under 10 pounds, Gag?s spur on preopercle is distincive, where black is gently roundedAdults OFFSHORE over rocks and reefs; juveniles occur in seagrass beds INSHORE.Common to 25 pounds.Forms spawning aggregations in water no shallower than 120 feet in Middle Grounds area. January through March; current research to identify similar aggregations off the Atlantic coast is on going. Young Gags are predominantly female, transforming into males as they grow larger; feeds on fish and squid.View Fish
Goliath GrouperHead and fins covered with small black spots; irregular dark vertical bars present on the sides of body; pectoral and caudal fins rounded; first dorsal fin shorted than and not separated from second dorsal; adults hugh, upto 800 pounds; eyes small.NEARSHORE around docks, in deep holes, and on ledges; young often occur in estuaries, especially around oyster bars; more abundant in southern Florida than in northern waters.Largest of the groupers.Spawns over summer months; lifespan of 30 to 50 years; feeds on crustaceans and fish. NOTE: Jewfish are totally protected from harvest in Florida waters.View Fish
Gray SnapperColor dark brown or gray with reddish or orange spots in rows along the sides; dark horizontal band from snout through eye (young only); two conspicuous canine teeth at front of upper jaw; dorsal fins have dark or reddish borders; no dark spot on side underneath dorsal fin.Juveniles INSHORE in tidal creeks, mangroves, and grass beds; adults generally NEARSHORE or OFFSHORE on coral or rocky reefs.OFFSHORE catches common 8 to 10 pounds.Spawns June through August; feeds on crustaceans and small fish. Also known as “Mangrove Snapper”.View Fish
Greater AmberjackDark stripe (variably present) extends from nose to in front of dorsal fin and "lights up" when fish is in feeding mode; no scutes; soft dorsal base less than twice the length of the anal fin base.OFFSHORE species associated with rocky reefs, debris, and wrecks, typically in 60-240 feet of water; sometimes caught NEARSHORE in south Florida; juveniles associate with floating objects and may occur in water less than 30 feet deep.Common to 40 pounds.Largest of the jacks; thought to spawn OFFSHORE throughout much of the year; feeds on squid, fish, and crustaceans.View Fish
Gulf FlounderBody color brown, its shade depending on color bottom, with numerous spots and blotches; 3 prominent eye-like spots forming a triangle; one spot on lateral line, one above, one below; numerous white spots scattered over body and fins; strong canine-like teeth; caudal fin in shape of wedge, its tip in the middle.INSHORE on sandy or mud bottoms, often ranging into title creeks; occasionally caught on NEARSHORE rocky reefs.Common to 2 pounds, generally smaller than southern flounder.Hatches into usual fish form, but right eye migrates over to left side early in life; a bottom dweller; thought to spawn offshore; feeds on crustaceans and small fish. View Fish
King MackerelColor of black iridescent bluish green, sides silvery; streamlined body with tapered head; no black pigment on front of the first dorsal fin; lateral line starts high and drops sharply below the second dorsal; young fish often have yellowish spots like those of Spanish mackerel.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE; occasionally taken from piers running into deep water.Common to 20 pounds.Schooling fish that migrates from south Florida waters in winter to more northerly waters in spring; Gulf population thought to be separate from Atlantic population, with considerable mixing in winter from Cape Canaveral past Key West; spawns in midsummer OFFSHORE; feeds on fish and squid.View Fish
LadyFishTerminal mouth; slender body; small scales; last dorsal ray not elongated; head small and pointed.INSHORE fish, in bays and estuaries; occasionally enters freshwater, occuring in tidal pools and canals; often forms large schools and harasses bait at the surface.2 to 3 pounds.Known to spawn OFFSHORE; ribbon-like larvae very similar to Albula and Egalops, peaking in fall; adults feed predominantly on fish and crustaceans; leaps when hooked.View Fish
Lane SnapperColor silvery-pink to reddish with short, irregular pink and yellow lines on its sides; diffuse black spot, about as large as the eye; the dorsal fin centered above the lateral line; outer margin of caudal fin blackish.Juveniles INSHORE over grass beds or shallow reefs; adults OFFSHORE; most common in south Florida.Usually less than 1 pound.Spawns March to September, sexually mature at 6 inches; feeds on the bottom, taking crustaceans, mollusks, and fish.View Fish
Lesser AmberjackOlive green or brownish back and silver sides; dark band (variably present) extends backward and upward from eye; juveniles have split or wavy bars on sides; proportionately larger eye and deeper body than Greater Amberjack.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE, apparently living deeper than other Seriola (commonly 180-410 feet deep).Usually under 10 pounds.Smallest of the Amberjacks; believed to spawn offshore; adults eat fish, and squid.View Fish
Longbill SpearfishOlive green or brownish back and silver sides; dark band (variably present) extends backward and upward from eye; juveniles have split or wavy bars on sides; proportionately larger eye and deeper body than Greater Amberjack.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE, apparently living deeper than other Seriola (commonly 180-410 feet deep).Usually under 10 pounds.Smallest of the Amberjacks; believed to spawn offshore; adults eat fish, and squid.View Fish
Mohogany SnapperOlive green or brownish back and silver sides; dark band (variably present) extends backward and upward from eye; juveniles have split or wavy bars on sides; proportionately larger eye and deeper body than Greater Amberjack.NEARSHORE and OFFSHORE, apparently living deeper than other Seriola (commonly 180-410 feet deep).Usually under 10 pounds.Smallest of the Amberjacks; believed to spawn offshore; adults eat fish, and squid.View Fish
Mutton SnapperColored olive green on back and upper sides, all fins below lateral line having reddish tinge; bright blue line below eye, following contour of operculum; anal fin pointed; small black spot below dorsal fin; V-shaped tooth patch on roof of mouth.AN INSHORE species associated with grass beds, mangroves, and canals; larger adults occasionally found on OFFSHORE reefs.Common to 15 poundsSpawns in July and August; feeds on fish, crustaceans, and snails.View Fish
Nassau GrouperColor light background with brown or red-brown bars on sides; stripe in shape of tuning fork on forehead; third spine of dorsal longer than second; pelvic fins shorter than pectorals; black dots around eyes; large black saddle on caudal peduncle.Range limited to south Florida; somewhat site specific; smaller individuals NEARSHORE, adults OFFSHORE on rocky reefs.Most catches under 10 pounds.Forms large spawning aggregations, making this species highly vulnerable to overharvest. NOTE: all hervest of this species is prohibited.View Fish
PalometaGrayish-blue-green on top of head and along the back; bright slivery sides; yellow on breast; elongated dorsal and anal fins, dusky or black with bluish edges; deep body, with four narrow bars high on the sides, and traces of a fifth nearer the tail; no scutes.In clear water along sandy beaches, and bays, occasionally found over reefs; most common in south Florida.Rarely over 1 pound, reported to 3 pounds.Thought to spawn offshore in spring, summer, and fall; has shown rapid growth in mariculture experiments; readily strikes small artificial lures.View Fish
PermitColor gray, dark or iridescent blue above, shading to silvery sides, in dark waters showing golden tints around breast; small permit have teeth on tongue (none on Pompano); no scutes; dorsal fin insertion directly above that of the anal fin; 17 to 21 soft dorsal rays; 16 to 19 soft anal rays.OFFSHORE on wrecks and debris, INSHORE on grass flats, sand flats, and in channels; most abundant in south Florida, with smaller specimens from every coastal county.Common to 25 pounds.Feeds mainly on bottom-dwelling crabs, shrimp, small clams, and small fish.View Fish
Queen SnapperColor of back and upper sides red. lower sides; silvery body long and slender; dorsal fin distinctly notched; large eyes; caudal fin deeply forked; no dark lateral spot.OFFSHORE over rocky reefs of the continental shelf to 450 feet; young suspend at mid-depths.Small species, usually less than 20 inches.Little is known, but it is reported that adults live at depths greater than 400 feet.View Fish
Red DrumChin without barbels; copper-brozne body; lighter shade in clear waters; one to many spots at base of tail (rarely no spots); mouth horizontal and opening downward; scales large.Juveniles are an INSHORE fish; migrating out of the estuaries at about 30 inches (4 years) and joining the spawing population OFFSHORE.One about 27 inches weighs about 8 pounds.Spawning occurs from August to Novermber in NEARSHORE waters; sudden cold snaps may kill red drum in shallow, INSHORE waters; feeds on crustaceans, fish and mollusks; longevity to 20 years or more.View Fish
Red GrouperColor brownish-red; lining of mouth scarlet-orange; blotches on sides in unorganized pattern; second spine of dorsal fin longer than others; pectoral fins longer than pelvic fins; squared-off tail; margin of soft dorsal black and white at midfin; black dots around the eyes.Bottom dwelling fish associated with hard bottom; juveniles OFFSHORE along with adults greater than 6 years old; fish from 1 to 6 years old occupy NEARSHORE reefs.Common to 15 pounds.Spawns in April and May; prefers water temperatures between 66 and 77°F; undergoes sex reversal, young individuals female, becoming male as they age; lifespan of at least 25 years; feeds on squid, crustaceans, and fish.View Fish
Red SnapperColor pinkish red over entire body, whitish below; long triangular snout; anal fin sharply pointed; no dark lateral spot.OFFSHORE on the continental shelf, more plentiful off the Panhandle than in south or middle Florida.Upto 20 pounds.Juveniles occur over sandy or mu bottoms and are often taken in shrimp trawls; adults may live more than 20 years, and attain 35 pounds or more; sexual maturity attained at age 2; spawns June to October; feeds on crustaceans and fish.View Fish
Rock Sea BassColor olive-brown or bronze, with dark blotches forming vertical bars; dark black blotche on middle of dorsal-fin base; tip of lower jaw purplish; bright blue and orange stripes and markings on head and fins; fully scaled nape; tail tri-lobed in adults.OFFSHORE; differs from other sea basses in that it is often found on sandy or muddy bottoms.Small species, rarely more than 10 inches.Spawns January through March; young adults are predominantly female, transforming into males as they grow older; maximum size is about 10 inches.View Fish
SailfishColor dark blue on top, brown-blue laterally, silvery white underbelly; upper jaw elongated in for of spear; first dorsal greatly enlarged in the form of a sail, with many black spots, its front squared off, highest at midpoint; pelvic fins very narrow, reaching almost to the anus; body covered with imbedded scales, blunt at end; lateral line curved over pectoral, then straight to base of tail.OFFSHORE species, in south Florida associated with waters near Gulf Stream; off the panhandle near the 100-fathom line.Common to 7 feet.Rapid growing species, reaching 4 to 5 feet in a single year; swims at speeds up to 50 knots; feeds on the surface or at mid-depths on smaller pelagic fish and squid.View Fish
Sand Sea TroutPale body color, yellow above, silver to white below; one or two prominent canine teeth usually at the tip of upper jaw; inside of mouth yellow;no well-defined black spots on back; 10 to 12 soft rays in anal fin; no chin barbels.A Gulf species, that may occur in the Atlantic waters of extreme southeastern Florida; adults predominantly found INSHORE residing in bays and inlets, but may move OFFSHORE during winter months; young occur INSHORE in shallow bays. Usually less than 1 pound (10-12 inches). Matures during first or second year; prolonged inshore spawning season extends through spring and summer; feeds mainly on small fish and shrimp.View Fish
Scalloped Hammerheadfifth gill slit shorter than 4 preceding ones and located posterior to pectoral fin base; flattened head extending to hammer-like lobes on each side; distinct indentation of the front margin of the head at its midpoint;Both OFFSHORE and INSHORE.Commonly 6 feet and can reach 14 feet.Predatory fish, feeding mainly on fish squid, and stingrays; male matures at about 6 feet in length.View Fish
ScampColor light gray or brown; large adults with elongated caudal-fin rays; reddish-brown spots on sides that tend to be grouped into lines; some yellow around corners of mouth.NEARSHORE reefs off the northeastern coast, and on OFFSHORE reefs in the Gulf.Generally smaller than Gags or Blacks.Spawns in late spring; feeds on small fish, squid, and crustaceans; undergoes sex transformation from female to male as it becomes older.View Fish
SchoolmasterColor olive gray on upper sides with yellow tinge, sometimes with reddish tinge around head; long triangular snout; eight pale vertical bars on the side of the body; yellow fins; blue stripe below eye, becoming interrupted in adults; no dark lateral spot.Juveniles in grass flats; adults NEARSHORE especially around elkhorn coral reefs; large adults sometimes found on continental shelf.Usually less than 1 pound.Spawns July and August; attains sizes of 8 pounds and 24 inches; slow grower; feeds on crustaceans, small fish, and gastropods.View Fish
SheepsheadBasic silvery color, with 5 or 6 distinct vertical black bands on sides, not always the same on both sides; prominent teeth, including incisors, molars, and rounded grinders; no barbels on lower jaw; strong and sharp spines on dorsal and anal fins.INSHORE species around oyster bars, seawalls and in tidal creeks; moves NEARSHORE in late winter and early spring for spawning, gathering over debris, artificial reefs, and around navigation markers.INSHORE, 1 to 2 pounds; OFFSHORE common to 8 pounds.Feeds on mollusks and crustaceans such as fiddler crabs and barnicles; famed nibblers, prompting the saying “anglers must strike just before they bite.”View Fish
Shortfin MakoLunate tail with similarly sized lobes; lateral keel at the base of the tail; deep blue back and white underside; underside of sharply pointed snout white; origin of first dorsal entirely behind base of pectoral fins; second dorsal fin slightly in front of anal fin; slender, recurved teeth with smooth edges.OFFSHORE fish often seen near the surface. Commonly 6 to 8 feet ( 200 - 300 pounds ).Active, strong swimming fish known for leaping out of the water when hooked; feeds on mackerel, tuna, sardines, and some much larger fish.View Fish
Silk SnapperBack and upper sides pinkish red, shading to silvery sides with undulating yellow lines; pecorals pale yellow; back edge of caudal fin blackish; anal fin pointed; no dark lateral spot. OFFSHORE over rocky ledges in very deep water; most common is south Florida.Usually less than 5 pounds.Little is known.View Fish
Silver Sea TroutPale straw colored above, silvery sides and white below; no distinctive pigmentation, although faint diagonal lines may be present on upper body; 8 to9 rays in the anal fin; large eyes; short snout; one or two prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw; lower half of tail longer than upper half.Most common over sand or sandy mud bottoms OFFSHORE along both the Gulf and the Atlantic coasts of Florida; migrates into bays during cold months.Usually no more than 1/2 pound (less than 10 inches) Smallest seatrout; spawns OFFSHORE in deep water during spring, summer, and fall; feeds on small fish and shrimp.View Fish
Silver PerchColor silvery with yellowish fins; no spots; no chin barbels; no prominent canine teeth at tip of of upper jaw: preopercle finely serrated; 5 to 6 chin pores; mouth terminal.INSHORE in seagrass beds, tidal creeks and rivers, and marshes.Small, not exceeding 9 inches.Spawning takes place in shallow, saline portions of bays and other INSHORE areas, peaking between May and September; matures by second or third year (by 6 inches); adults eat crustaceans and small fish; may live to 6 years.View Fish
Spanish Mackerel Color of back green, shading to silver on sides, golden yellow irregular spots above and below lateral line; front dorsal fin black; lateral line curves gently to base of tail. INSHORE, NEARSHORE, and OFFSHORE, especially over deep grass beds and reefs; absent from north Florida waters in winter.Average catch less than 2 pounds (20 inches).Schooling fish that migrate northward in spring, returning to southerly waters when water temperatures drop below 70° F; spawns OFFSHORE, spring through summer; feeds on small fish and squid. View Fish
Spotted Sea TroutDark gray or green above, with sky-blue tinges shading to silvery and white below; numerous distinct round black spots on back, extending to the dorsal fins and tail; black margin on posterior of tail; no barbels; no scales on the soft dorsal fin; one or two prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw. INSHORE and /or NEARSHORE over grass, sand, and sandy mud bottoms; move into shallow waters in cold weather.Common to 4 pounds on west coast, larger on east coast.Matures during first or second year and spawns INSHORE from March through November, often in association with seagrass beds; lives mainly in estuaries and moves only short distances; adults feed mainly on shrimp and small fish; prefers water temperatures between 58 and 81° F, and may be killed if trapped in shallow water during cold weather; longevity 8 to 10 years.View Fish
Striped (Black) MulletColor bluish-gray or green above, shading to silver on sides, with indistinct horizontal black barrings, white below; fins lightly scaled at base, unscaled above; blunt nose and small mouth; second dorsal fin originates behind that of the anal fin.INSHORERoe mullet common to 3 pounds but in aquariums known to reach 12 pounds or more.Adults migrate OFFSHORE in large schools to spawn; juveniles migrate INSHORE at about 1 inch in size, moving far up title creeks; frequent leapers; feeds on algae, detritus, and other tiny marine forms. View Fish
SwordfishColor of back variable, black, grayish blue, brown, metallic purple, or bronze; sides dusty; underbelly dirty white; long, flat, sword-like upper jaw; lacks scales, teeth, and pelvic fins; single keel on each side of body in front of tail; first dorsal fin high, rigid and short; large eyes. OFFSHORE worldwide species in temperate and tropical; known to frequent depths of 400 to 500 fathoms; also has been seen basking at the surface. Once averaged 200 pounds, but over harvest has reduced size of commercially caught swordfish to average 48 inches. Large swordfish are all females, males seldom exceeding 200 pounds except when spawning, females believed to prefer water cooler than that favored by males; feeds on squid, octopus, and pelagic fishes of all kinds. View Fish
Swordspine SnookSmallest of the snooks; profile slightly concave; prominent lateral line outlined in black ( not solid ), extends above, silvery below; giant second anal spine, hence the name; largest scales of all snook.Occurs in INSHORE estuarine habitats from south Florida as far north on the east coast as St. Lucie River.usually less than 1 pound ( 12 inches).Occurs in INSHORE estuarine habitats from south Florida as far north on the east coast as St. Lucie River.View Fish
Tarpon SnookOnly snook with 7 anal fin rays ( others have 6 ); lower jaw curves upward; compressed body; prominent black lateral line extends through tail; tips of pelvic fins reach beyond anus. INSHORE in south Florida; frequently in fresh water.Usually less than 1 pound ( 12 inches ).Maximum size of 16 to 18 inches; feeds on small fish and larger crustaceans; young are nurtured along mangrove shorelines; rare on Florida’s west coast.View Fish
TarponLast ray of dorsal fin extended into long filament; one dorsal fin; back dark blue to green or greenish black, shading into bright silver on sides; may be brownish gold in estuarine waters; huge scales; mouth large and points upward.Primarily INSHORE fish, although adult fish spawn OFFSHORE where the ribbon-like larval stage of the fish can be found.Most angler catches 40 - 50 pounds.Slow grower, matures at 7 to 13 years of age; spawning occurs between May and September; female may lay more than 12 million eggs; can tolerate wide range of salinity; juveniles commonly found in fresh water; can breathe air at the surface; feeds mainly on fish and large crustaceans.View Fish
Vermillion SnapperColor of entire body reddish, with a series of short, irregular lines on its sides, diagonal blue lines formed by spots on the scales above the lateral line; sometimes with yellow streaks below the lateral line; large canine teeth absent; orientation of mouth and eye give it the appearance of looking upward; no dark lateral spot.Suspends at mid-depths over rocky reefs OFFSHORE.Usually less than 1 pound.Spawns April to September; females maturing at 3 to 4 years of age; grows slowly; attains a weight of 6 pounds and length of 24 inches; feeds on small, swimming crustaceans and mollusks.View Fish
Weakfish Dark olive or blue-green back; sides covered in tones of blue, purple, lavender, gold, and copper; irregular diagonal rows of vaguely-defined dark spots appear above the lateral line; 1 to 2 prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw; black margin on tip of the tongue; pelvic and anal fins yellow; pectoral fins olive on outside, yellow underneath; mouth yellow inside.An Atlantic coast fish, possibly found in the extreme southeastern Gulf; adults move INSHORE and north during warm months inhabiting the surf, inlet bays, channels, and estuaries; adults move OFFSHORE and south during cold months; juveniles inhabit estuaries which serve as nurseries. 2 to 3 pounds. May mature as early as age 1; spawns in NEARSHORE or estuarine areas between April and October; schooling fish; feeds primarily on shrimp and fish. View Fish
White MarlinColor of body dark blue to chocolate brown, shading to silvery white underbelly; noticeable spots on dorsal fin; upper jaw elongated in shape of spear; body covered with embedded scales with a single sharp point; tips of dorsal, pectoral, and first anal fins rounded; lateral line curved above pectoral fin, then going in straight line to base of tail.OFFSHORE, a blue water fish.Common to 8 feet.Uses its bill to stun fast-moving fish, then turns to consume them; spawning procedures unknown; ranges throughout the Atlantic and Caribbean; feeds on squid and pelagic fish. View Fish
White GruntBody color light bluish-gray, head with horizontal blue stripes, white underbelly; black blotch on peropercle; margin of each scale bronze; large bright orange mouth; scales above leteral line larger than scales below lateral line.From SHORE to the outer reef edge or on OFFSHORE hard bottom to 115 feet; most abundant in water less than 80 feet deep; juveniles INSHORE. Most catches 1.5 pounds (15 inches).Audible grunting is produced by grinding of the pharyngeal teeth, with air bladder acting as amplifier; spawning occurs on OFFSHORE hard bottoms or reefs from May through June; feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.View Fish
Yellowfin GrouperColor highly variable greenish olive or bright red with longitudinal rows of darker black blotches over entire fish; outer one-third of pectoral fins bright yellow; lower parts of larger fish with small bright red spots.OFFSHORE on reefs off southern portions of Florida.Common to 20 pounds.Undergoes sex reversal from female to male in latter part of life; specific name translates to “venomous”, alluding to the fact that this fish, perhaps more frequently than other groupers, is associated with ciguatera poisoning; feeds on fish and squid.View Fish
Yellowmouth GrouperColor tan or brown with darker spots; spots, or a network of spots, fused into lines; distinct yellow was behind the jaws; yellow around the eyes; outer edges of fins yellowish.OFFSHORE over reefs and rocks; not as common as Scamp in the Gulf; range limited to southern Florida.Common to 15 poundsUndergoes sex reversal, young individuals female, older individuals becoming male; young fish are bi-colored, dark above white below; feeds on small fish and crustaceans.View Fish
Yellowtail SnapperBack and upper sides olive to bluish with yellow spots; lower sides and belly with alternating narrow, longitudinal pink and yellow stripes; prominent midlateral yellow stripe begins at mouth and runs to tail, broadening as it passes the dorsal fins; caudal fin yellow and deeply forked; no dark lateral spot. Juveniles INSHORE on grassbeds and back reefs; adults NEARSHORE or OFFSHORE over sandy areas near reefs.Common to 3 pounds.Found mainly in tropical waters; spawns in midsummer; rarely exceeds 30 inches and 5 pounds in size; feeds on small fish and invertebrates.View Fish