Spotted Seatrout
The spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosus, is a prized coastal fish known for its sleek, silvery body marked with black spots. Commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Atlantic coast, this species is a favorite among anglers due to its strong fight and abundance in shallow waters. It is especially valued for its table fare, making it a popular target in recreational fishing.
Length~48 (max 94)
Weight~1 (max 8)
WaterSalt
Water Temp15-26° F
- Other namesSpeckled trout
- Length~48 (max 94)
- Weight~1 (max 8)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp15-26° F
Popular lures for Spotted Seatrout
Regulation for Spotted Seatrout
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit6
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits>22" (1 fish)
- Max size22"
- Min size15"
- MeasurementTotal length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Spotted seatrout prefer shallow, coastal waters such as bays, estuaries, and tidal creeks, where they are often found near seagrass beds and oyster bars
- They are most active in areas with brackish water, using the mix of fresh and saltwater to their advantage in hunting prey
- Their diet mainly consists of shrimp, crabs, and small fish, which they hunt in schools, especially during dawn and dusk
- Anglers often find them in grassy flats and around underwater structures where they seek shelter and ambush food
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in late spring through summer, with the fish gathering in large numbers in estuarine waters to reproduce
- Males attract females by making a distinctive drumming sound, which can be heard underwater
- After spawning, the eggs hatch within a day or two, and the larvae develop quickly, remaining in protected shallow waters until they mature
- During the spawning season, spotted seatrout are more concentrated and aggressive, making them easier to locate and catch for anglers