Spot Croaker
The spot croaker, Leiostomus xanthurus, is a small marine fish commonly found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. It is named for the distinct black spot near its gills. Inhabiting estuaries and nearshore waters, it feeds on small invertebrates and detritus. The species is popular in both commercial and recreational fishing, valued for its mild flavor.
Length~25 (max 36)
Weight~1 (max 1)
WaterSalt, brackish
Water Temp13-26° F
Depth1-50 ft
- Other namesSpot, Norfolk spot, Virginia spot
- Length~25 (max 36)
- Weight~1 (max 1)
- WaterSalt, brackish
- Water Temp13-26° F
- Depth1-50 ft
Popular lures for Spot Croaker
Regulation for Spot Croaker
- Season-
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Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Spot croakers are typically found in estuaries, bays, and nearshore waters with sandy or muddy bottoms
- They prefer brackish waters, often in tidal creeks, where they feed on benthic invertebrates like worms, crustaceans, and small mollusks
- This species thrives in shallow waters, especially those rich in organic matter, which supports their diet
- During colder months, they may migrate to deeper offshore waters
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spot croakers spawn in coastal waters, with peak spawning occurring in late summer and fall
- Eggs are released into the open water, where they develop and hatch as planktonic larvae
- The larvae eventually move into estuaries, where they grow and mature in protected shallow waters
- Seasonal migrations are common, with adults moving offshore in winter and returning to estuaries in spring and summer for feeding and spawning