Common names
Speckled trout
Spotted seatrout
Cynoscion nebulosus
- Saltwater
- Least concern
Max length39.25 in
Common length14.25 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight15 lb 7 oz
Min Depth33 ft
Max age18 years
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
Spotted seatrout have an elongated, soft dorsal fin with scales, it is separated from the spinous dorsal fin by a deep notch. They usually have two anal spines and the lateral line extends to the tip of the caudal fin. Spotted seatrout have prominent canine teeth and lack barbels on the lower jaw. The back is dark grey or green, with distinct spots scattered on it (including on the dorsal and caudal fins), fading to a silvery or white belly. In stained water, this fish's background may take on a golden hue. Its shape and colouration is reminiscent of a brown trout and also they are closely related to the weakfish.
Habitat
While most of these fish are caught on shallow, grassy flats, spotted seatrout reside in virtually any inshore waters, from the surf of outside islands to far up coastal rivers, where they often come for shelter during cold weather.
Distribution
Western Atlantic: New York to southern Florida in the USA and the entire Gulf of Mexico. Northeastern Atlantic: recently reported from the Guadalquivir River estuary in Spain.
Behaviour
Spawning occurs inshore from March through November. They move into deeper, still waters during colder months. They feed on baitfish, mullet, shrimp and crabs.
Edibility
Excellent, they have a delicate, mild flavour. They pair nicely with sharper flavours and seasonings. If they are sauteed on high heat, the skin will get crispy and tasty as well.
Lure suggestion
Free-line live bait near the bottom to entice trout out of grass-bed holes. Attaching a float will allow these baits to drift over the grass beds as you search for trout. Casting with soft-bodied jigs, top-water poppers and spoons can be effective as well. Good bait: live shrimp, small pinfish, mullet or pigfish (grunts).
Similar species
Other similar species
Weakfish, C. regalis (has irregular wavy lines instead of spots)