Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, over seagrass, in estuaries and shallow coastal water; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The spotted seatrout is a slender drum of the family Sciaenidae reaching about 1 metre. The silvery-grey body bears scattered round, black spots on back, tail and rear body, and the upper jaw holds a pair of large, pointed canine teeth. Like many drums it makes drumming sounds with muscles around the swim bladder, especially the males in the breeding season. The species lives over seagrass, in estuaries and shallow coastal water of the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico and tolerates brackish water. It hunts shrimp and small fish. Because of its tasty flesh and good fight it is one of the most popular coastal sport fish, with catch rules to keep the stock healthy.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted seatrout?
The Spotted seatrout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Slender croaker with round black spots on the back, tail and rear body and a pair of large canine teeth; makes drumming sounds.
Where does the Spotted seatrout live?
The Spotted seatrout lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, over seagrass, in estuaries and shallow coastal water; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Spotted seatrout get?
The Spotted seatrout grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 36 cm.
Is the Spotted seatrout dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted seatrout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted seatrout edible?
Yes, the Spotted seatrout is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cynoscion
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted seatrout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted seatrout is one of 12,519 species in the app.