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The spotted seatrout also known as
speckled trout,
or spotted weakfish (Cynoscion nebulosus) is a common
estuary fish found in the southern United States. 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. Contrary to its name, the spotted seatrout is
not a member of the trout family (Salmonidae), but of the drum
family (Sciaenidae).
These fish have large, prominent canine teeth; dark back with grey
or silvery sides marked with scattered ocellated black spots of
varying size. Plain black spots are also present on the dorsal and
tail fins. Its shape and coloration is reminiscent of a brown trout
(Salmo trutta), hence the name. In stained water, this fish's
background may take on a golden hue.
The average size of these fish is 0.5-1.0 kg (1-2 lb), but in most
areas fish up to 2.5 kg (5 lb) are fairly common. 3.5-4.5 kg (8-10
lb) fish are rare. World record is 7.9 kg (17 lb 7 oz). These fish
are active most at dawn and dusk. A proven catching technique is at
dark to throw out a glow stick into the water and cast around it as
these fish are attracted to light (see Fishing light attractor).
Live shrimp are an ideal bait, but speckled seatrout very rarely go
for dead shrimp. Other excellent baits are fingerling mullet and
soft artificials, if "worked" correctly. It has been proven that the
very large fish will attempt to swallow mullet up to 1/3 of their
own size.
Like all members of the drum family, mature males produce a
"drumming" sound to attract females during the spawning season (May
through early September). This fish is often found in shallow tidal
creeks near flooded salt marshes, where it feeds mainly on shrimp
and small fish. Spotted seatrout are also know to congregate heavily
over oyster reefs. It is fished both commercially and
recreationally.
The spotted seatrout makes for excellent tablefare with a firm,
white meat.
This fish is more commonly referred to as "speckled trout" by
coastal fisherman along the Gulf of Mexico. Residents of Florida and
coastal Georgia commonly refer to it as simply "trout." The shorter
alias, "specks," is also used.
Information courtesy of
Wikipedia
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