Silver Seatrout: Cynoscion nothus

Appearance:

• Pale straw colored above, silvery sides and white below
• No distinctive pigmentation, although faint diagonal lines may be present on upper body
• 8 to 9 rays in the anal fin
• Large eyes
• Short snout
• One or two prominent canine teeth usually present at tip of upper jaw
• Lower half of tail longer than upper half

Habitat:

Silver seatrout are most common over sand or sandy mud bottoms offshore along both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts of Florida.  They migrate into bays during cold months.

Behavior:

Silver seatrout spawn offshore in deep water during spring, summer and fall.  They feed on small fish and shrimp.

State Record:

This species is not currently eligible for a state record.

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Additional Information:

These are the smallest seatrout; usually no more than 1/2 pound (less than 10 inches).

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles