Florida Fish Encyclopedia: Guide to Local Species

illustrated

Florida Fish Encyclopedia: Guide to Local Species

Welcome to the fish encyclopedia created for avid anglers and fishing enthusiasts in Florida and the world in general. This short guide provides information on a variety of fish species that can be found while fishing in the Sunshine State. From popular catches to unique finds, you'll find information in our encyclopedia.

Red Snapper

The Red Snapper is a highly sought-after fish. Found primarily around reefs and rocky ledges in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish provide a thrilling challenge for anglers of all skill levels. Red Snapper season is a highlight for fishing enthusiasts, offering the chance to catch these prized fish and enjoy their exceptional taste. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or a novice, a guided fishing trip targeting Red Snapper in Florida promises an unforgettable experience.

Scamp Grouper

Scamp Grouper (Mycteroperca phenax) The Scamp Grouper is a prized catch among anglers, known for its delectable taste and challenging fight. Found primarily in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, this species is recognized by its elongated body, mottled brown coloring, and distinctive tail pattern. Scamp Groupers are typically caught around reefs and rocky outcrops, making them a favorite target for both recreational and professional fishermen.

Red Grouper

Red Grouper (Epinephelus morio) is a popular target for anglers, known for its robust body and distinctive reddish-brown color. Found primarily in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish prefer rocky bottoms, ledges, and reefs. Red Groupers are prized for their firm, white flesh and excellent taste, making them a favorite for both sport and table fare. They can grow up to 50 inches in length and provide a good challenge for fishermen of all skill levels. Сatching a Red Grouper is a rewarding experience.

Gag Grouper

Gag Grouper (Mycteroperca microlepis) The Gag Grouper is a prized catch known for its strong fight and delicious taste. Found in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish prefer rocky bottoms and reefs. With their mottled gray color and robust body, Gag Groupers can grow up to 50 inches. They are favored by both novice and experienced anglers for their firm, tasty flesh. Catching a Gag Grouper is a rewarding experience for any fishing enthusiast.

Black Grouper

King Mackerel

King Mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla), commonly known as "Kingfish," is a highly prized catch for anglers fishing in Florida. Known for their speed and agility, these fish inhabit the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, often found around offshore structures and reefs. King Mackerel can grow up to 72 inches in length and are famous for their powerful runs and acrobatic leaps, providing an exhilarating challenge for fishermen. Their oily, flavorful flesh is popular in various culinary dishes.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus) Spanish Mackerel is a favorite among Florida anglers for its speed and striking patterns. Found in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish frequent coastal waters and reefs. Growing up to 37 inches, Spanish Mackerel are known for their fast runs and sharp strikes, making them a thrilling catch. Their firm, flavorful flesh is enjoyed in various dishes, making them a popular target for both sport and culinary enthusiasts. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned pro, catching a Spanish Mackerel in Florida is an exciting experience.

Cobia

Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) Cobia, also known as "lemonfish," is a prized catch for Florida anglers due to its strong fight and excellent taste. Found in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish inhabit coastal waters, often around reefs, wrecks, and buoys. Cobia can grow up to 78 inches in length and are known for their powerful, determined runs, providing a thrilling challenge for fishermen. Their firm, white flesh is highly valued for its flavor, making them a favorite for both sport and culinary purposes. Whether you're a novice or an experienced angler, catching a Cobia in Florida is an exhilarating and rewarding adventure.

Mahi-Mahi

Mahi-Mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) Mahi-Mahi, also known as Dolphinfish, is a vibrant and sought-after catch for Florida anglers. Found in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish often inhabit offshore areas around floating debris and weed lines. Mahi-Mahi can grow up to 63 inches in length and are celebrated for their stunning colors and acrobatic leaps, providing an exciting challenge for fishermen. Their firm, flavorful flesh is highly prized in many culinary dishes. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, catching Mahi-Mahi in Florida offers an exhilarating and rewarding fishing experience.

Wahoo

Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) The Wahoo is a highly prized catch among Florida anglers, known for its incredible speed and agility. Found in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish often inhabit offshore areas and are known for their long, streamlined bodies and striking vertical stripes. Wahoo can grow up to 8 feet in length and are renowned for their powerful runs and challenging fights, making them a favorite target for sport fishing. Their firm, white flesh is highly valued for its excellent taste, often enjoyed grilled or in sushi.

Blackfin Tuna

Blackfin Tuna (Thunnus atlanticus) The Blackfin Tuna is a coveted catch for Florida anglers, known for its strength and delicious flavor. Found in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish often travel in schools and are known for their dark, streamlined bodies with distinctive finlets. Blackfin Tuna can grow up to 3 feet in length and provide an exciting challenge with their fast, powerful runs. Their firm, flavorful flesh is highly prized for sushi, sashimi, and grilling. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or a novice, targeting Blackfin Tuna in Florida offers an exhilarating and rewarding fishing adventure.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) The Yellowfin Tuna is a prized catch for anglers in Florida, renowned for its incredible speed, strength, and delicious flavor. Found in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, these fish are recognizable by their bright yellow dorsal and anal fins. Yellowfin Tuna can grow up to 8 feet in length and are known for their powerful, sustained runs, making them a thrilling challenge for fishermen. Their firm, pinkish flesh is highly valued in sushi, sashimi, and various culinary dishes. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, catching a Yellowfin Tuna in Florida promises an exhilarating and rewarding experience.

African Pompano

African Pompano (Alectis ciliaris) is a prized catch for Florida anglers, known for its striking appearance and strong fight. This species is commonly found in warm coastal waters, often swimming in the pelagic zone near reefs, wrecks, and other structures. The African Pompano is easily recognizable by its silvery, compressed body and elongated, thread-like fin rays, giving it a unique look. These fish can grow up to 42 inches in length and are known for their swift, powerful runs and acrobatic leaps, providing an exciting challenge for fishermen. Their firm, white flesh is highly valued for its excellent taste, often enjoyed grilled or as sashimi. Catching an African Pompano in Florida promises an exhilarating and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all levels.

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) or Atlantic Tuna, is one of the largest and most powerful fish species in the ocean. This species lives in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and is known for its enormous size, high speed, and excellent meat flavor. Bluefin Tuna can reach lengths of up to 10 feet and weights over 1,000 pounds. The main part of the body is covered in metallic blue hues and the belly is silver colored. The Bluefin Tuna is a highly migratory species, traveling long distances in open waters. The bulk of the Bluefin Tuna's diet consists of small fish, squid, and crustaceans. They actively hunt in the pelagic zone, inhabiting the upper layers of the ocean.

Bonito

Bonito (Sardine) is a fast-swimming marine fish of the mackerel family that lives in the warm waters of the world's oceans. It has an oblong body with a blue or green tinted back and a silvery belly. Bonito reaches a length of up to 30 inches (75 cm) and a weight of about 22 pounds (10 kg). This fish is prized for its tender, flavorful meat used in cooking for a variety of dishes such as sashimi, steaks and canned food. Fishing for Bonito is popular among sport fishing enthusiasts because of its fighting qualities.

Sailfish

An absolutely incredible sea creature, the sailfish is considered by scientists to be one of the fastest fish in the ocean. It can reach speeds of up to 68 miles per hour and can reach sizes up to 10 feet (3 meters) long. Sailfish make high leaps above the water. While fishing, it is cunning and hardy. Catching Sailfish can absolutely be called memorable and interesting. Experienced fishermen are always very emotional about the process of fishing for Ruba Sailfish. Can be caught Along the east coast of Florida including the famous fishing areas around Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Daytona Beach.

Blue Marlin

Encounter the Blue Marlin, or as scientifically identified, Makaira nigricans – an iconic predator inhabiting both tropical and temperate waters, displaying its vibrant blue hues and impressive bill. This species is often associated with offshore environments, where it pursues schools of smaller fish.Anglers pursue the challenge of catching Blue Marlin, prized for their size, strength, and acrobatic displays during the fight. Responsible fishing practices, including catch-and-release efforts, are crucial for the conservation of Blue Marlin populations and the overall health of marine ecosystems.

Black Sea Bass

Meet the Black Sea Bass, a prized catch for coastal anglers. With their dark and striking appearance, Black Sea Bass provide not only a thrilling fishing experience but also a flavorful reward. Responsible fishing practices, including adherence to size limits and conservation efforts, contribute to the sustainability of Black Sea Bass populations and the preservation of their marine habitats.

Grunt (Haemulidae family)

The Grunt, belonging to the Haemulidae family, is a group of saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by their unique grunting sounds, Grunts inhabit various habitats, including reefs, sandy bottoms, and seagrass beds. Anglers appreciate these fish not only for their distinctive vocalizations but also for their mild-flavored and firm-textured flesh.

Porgy

The Porgy, belonging to the Sparidae family, is a diverse group of saltwater fish found in coastal waters. Recognizable by their deep bodies and prominent eyes, Porgies inhabit a variety of habitats, including rocky bottoms, reefs, and sandy areas. Anglers appreciate these fish for their tasty and firm flesh, making them a popular catch.

Permit

The Permit, scientifically known as Trachinotus falcatus, is a prized and elusive species inhabiting warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its sleek, silvery body and distinctive forked tail, the Permit is a sought-after catch for anglers. These fish are commonly found near flats, coral reefs, and sandy bottoms.

Snook

The Snook, scientifically known as Centropomus undecimalis, is a prized game fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its distinctively elongated body, prominent lateral line, and sloping forehead, Snook are sought after by anglers for their sportfishing appeal. They are commonly found in estuaries, mangroves, and nearshore environments.

Spotted Seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus)

The Spotted Seatrout, scientifically known as Cynoscion nebulosus, is a popular inshore game fish found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Recognizable by its distinctive dark spots on the back and dorsal fin, the Spotted Seatrout is prized by anglers for its sportfishing qualities. It inhabits estuaries, bays, and coastal waters with seagrass beds.

Redfish (Red Drum, Sciaenops ocellatus)

The Redfish, also known as Red Drum and scientifically identified as Sciaenops ocellatus, is a highly prized inshore game fish found in coastal waters. Recognizable by its copper or bronze color and distinctive black spot near the tail, Redfish is a popular catch among anglers. It thrives in estuaries, marshes, and nearshore areas, making it accessible to both shore and boat anglers.

Flounder (Paralichthys genus)

Flounder, belonging to the Paralichthys genus, is a group of flatfish known for their unique body shape and bottom-dwelling habits. With both eyes on one side of their flattened bodies, flounders are skilled at camouflaging themselves against the ocean floor. They are commonly found in coastal waters, estuaries, and sandy or muddy bottoms.

Pompano (Trachinotus genus)

Pompano, belonging to the Trachinotus genus, is a group of coastal marine fish known for their speed, agility, and delectable taste. With a sleek body and forked tail, Pompano are prized by anglers for their exciting fights and culinary appeal. They are commonly found in warm coastal waters, near sandy beaches, and inshore areas.

Black Drum (Pogonias cromis)

The Black Drum, scientifically known as Pogonias cromis, is a robust and highly-prized inshore fish found in coastal waters. Recognizable by its dark coloration, whisker-like barbels, and distinctive drumming sounds, Black Drum is a favorite among anglers. They inhabit estuaries, bays, and nearshore areas with sandy or muddy bottoms.

Sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus)

Sheepshead, scientifically known as Archosargus probatocephalus, is a coastal fish found along the Atlantic Ocean, from Nova Scotia to Florida. Recognizable by distinctive vertical stripes, they frequently swim by structures like docks, piers, and jetties.

Tripletail (Lobotes surinamensis)

The Tripletail, scientifically known as Lobotes surinamensis, is a unique and sought-after saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Known for its distinctive appearance with three fins along its dorsal and anal regions, the Tripletail often adopts a floating or drifting posture near the water's surface.

Jack Crevalle (Caranx hippos)

The Jack Crevalle, scientifically known as Caranx hippos, is a powerful and aggressive saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its streamlined body, silvery color, and distinctive black spot on its operculum, the Jack Crevalle is a popular target for sport anglers.

Ladyfish (Elops saurus)

The Ladyfish, scientifically known as Elops saurus, is a swift and acrobatic saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its slender body, silvery color, and elongated jaws, Ladyfish are known for their energetic leaps and aerial displays when hooked.

Gafftopsail Catfish (Bagre Marinus)

The Gafftopsail Catfish, scientifically known as Bagre marinus, is a peculiar-looking saltwater catfish found in coastal waters. Recognizable by its long, sail-like dorsal fin adorned with venomous spines, Gafftopsail Catfish often inhabit estuaries, bays, and shallow coastal areas. Anglers encounter them while targeting other species, and they are known for their spirited fights.

Mangrove Snapper (Lutjanus Griseus)

The Mangrove Snapper, scientifically known as Lutjanus griseus, is a popular inshore and nearshore saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its reddish-brown color, Mangrove Snapper often inhabit mangrove-lined estuaries, seagrass beds, and rocky structures.

Lane Snapper (Lutjanus Synagris)

The Lane Snapper, scientifically known as Lutjanus Synagris, is a small and colorful saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its vibrant red and pink hues, Lane Snapper is commonly found near reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky structures.

Vermilion Snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens)

The Vermilion Snapper, scientifically known as Rhomboplites aurorubens, is a vibrant and tasty saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its striking red coloration and yellow fins, Vermilion Snapper inhabit rocky bottoms, reefs, and ledges. Anglers appreciate this species for its delicious, mild-flavored flesh.

Stingray (Dasyatidae family)

The Stingray, belonging to the Dasyatidae family, is a fascinating marine creature found in coastal and oceanic waters. Recognizable by their flattened bodies and long, whip-like tails, Stingrays are often encountered near the seafloor.

Yellowtail Snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus)

The Yellowtail Snapper, scientifically known as Ocyurus chrysurus, is a prized and flavorful saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its vibrant yellow tail and silvery body, Yellowtail Snapper inhabit coral reefs, rocky areas, and seagrass beds.

Hogfish (Lachnolaimus maximus)

The Hogfish, scientifically known as Lachnolaimus maximus, is a distinctive and delicious saltwater fish found in warm coastal waters. Recognizable by its unique pig-like snout and vibrant coloration, Hogfish are often found near reefs, wrecks, and seagrass beds

Triggerfish (Balistidae family)

Amberjack

Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) The Amberjack is a popular target among anglers, known for its strength and fighting qualities. This fish lives in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic on shipwrecks, reefs, and offshore structures. Amberjacks can grow up to 6 feet in length and are known for their powerful jerks, making them exciting prey. Their firm white flesh is also prized for its culinary merits, making the amberjack a favorite in both sport and on the table.

Barracuda

Barracudas range in size from a minimum of 15 inches to a maximum of 36 inches in fork length. They thrive in warmer waters and are more active during sunny, clear days when water temperatures rise. With no closed season, fishing for barracudas is open year-round, allowing anglers to pursue these thrilling fish at any time.

Swordfish

The Swordfish, scientifically known as Xiphias gladius, is a large and highly migratory fish recognized for its distinctive long, sword-like bill and sleek, streamlined body. Inhabiting both temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, the Swordfish is a formidable predator with remarkable speed and agility.

Tarpon

The Tarpon, scientifically known as Megalops atlanticus, is a magnificent and powerful fish found in warm coastal waters. With its distinctive, silver-scaled body and impressive size, Tarpon are often referred to as "silver kings." They inhabit both saltwater and freshwater environments, including coastal bays, estuaries, and rivers.

Fishes

Florida Fish Encyclopedia: Guide to Local Species