Common Saltwater Fishes of Southwest Florida

CODE OF ETHICAL ANGLING

Helpfish stocksincrease through catch and release. Limityour take, don't always take your limit. Observeregulations and report violations. Onlykeep fish for trophyor dish. Escapetradition, try a newcatch in the kitchen. Gethooked on fishing's thrill, not alcoholor drugsthat kill. Bring all garbagein, don't teach it to swim. Captainyour boat, practicing safety afloat. Showcourtesy and respect, others' rights don't neglect. Share what you know to help your sport grow.

Commityourself to ethicalangling; the future of yoursport depends on it. Passit on!

National Marine Fisheries Service A Tackle Box Guide to:

COMMON SALTWATER FISHES OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

writtenby: CaptainRalph Allen'

editedby:

Will Shef tall' John Stevely' Don Smeat'

illustratedby: JamesSeagle'

August 1993

See back cover for information on how to order.!

' CharterBoat Captain, King Fisher Fleet, Punta Gorda, FL. ' SeaGrant Marine Extension Agents for Charlotte County; Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasotaand Collier counties;and Citrus, Hernando,Pasco and Pinellascounties; respectively. ' FisheriesBiologist and Artist, Port Charlotte, FL, ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Theidea for thisbook began with a desireon the partof numerousindividuals, Sea Grant Extension advisorycommittees, and local Florida Conservation Association Chapters to helpanglers better understandand appreciatethe fisheryresources of SouthwestFlorida's inland waters. TheWest CoastInland Navigation District shared our interest in producinga handy-to-use fish identification guide,and funded development of this publication. informationabout the fishes in thisbook came from a varietyof sources,including local lore. The challengingpart involved linking my many years of observations with scientific facts not readily seen or knownby fishermen,This task was performedadmirably by two FloridaSea GrantExtension Agents:John Stevely and Don Sweat. Their professional expertise as marine biologists, coupled with yearsof fieldexperience working with fishermen, proved invaluable.

SeaGrant Extension Agent Will Sheftall developed the project proposal and coordinated the writing andediting of thetext. Hiseditorial expertise in format,style and usage was indispensable, Special thanksgoes to CarmenSours of theCharlotte County Cooperative Extension office, who patiently typedand re-typed the manydraft versions of the manuscript.

Finally,this book would be of littleinterest without the illustrations that form the basis for identifying eachof the86 species described within these pages. James Seagle, noted wildlife artist for many years,employed his considerabletalent in creatingillustrations that ensurethe usefulnessof this publication.All who makethis booktheir tackle box companionare indebtedto Jamesfor his selflesspersonal donation of theseoutstanding drawings.

Let'sgo fishing!

CaptainRalph Allen August t993 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Pompano 18 Preface Permit 18 Fishing Regulations GreaterAmberjack 19 Catch and Release Jack Crevalle 19 Usingthe Descriptions: Blue Runner 20 Parts of a Fish vul Bluefish 20 Text Outline VIII SouthernStingray 21 SpeciesDescriptions: Skate 2'I Snook Cow Nosed Ray 22 Red Drum Spotted Eagle Ray 22 SpottedSeatrout Guitarfish 23 Sand Seatrout Sawfish 23 Atlantic Croaker Sharks 24-27 Whiting SchoolingBaitfishes 28-29 Striped Mojarra Cobia 30 Silver Perch Remora 30 Black Drum GraySnapper 31 Sheepshead Mutton Snapper 31 Porgy YellowtailSnapper 32 Spottail Pinfish VermillionSnapper 32 Pinfish 23456789Lane Snapper 2345678933 Pigfish Hogfish 33 White Grunt Red Grouper 34 Tomtate Grunt GagGrouper 34 Tarpon Scamp 35 Ladyfish Jewfish 35 Needlefish 10 Black Sea Bass 36 FlyingFish 'IO Tripletail 36 Sea Catfish Sand Perch 37 GafftopsailCatfish 11 Soapfish 37 Mullet 12 King Mackerel 38 Gulf Flounder 12 SpanishMackerel 38 Toadfish 13 Little Tunny 39 Sea Robin 13 Atlantic Bonito 39 Lizardfish 14 Barracuda 40 Spadefish 14 Dolphin 40 GrayTriggerfish 15 Index of Common Names 41 OrangeFilefish 15 PreventingFishing Inluries 42 Southern Puffer 16 ReleasingHooked and Burrlish 16 EntangledSeabirds 43 Cowfish 17 To Leam More, Visit... 44 Leatherlacket 17 For Assistance,Contact... 45 Floridais anangler's paradise. Our wide variety of fish makes fishing a popularactivity. More than 5 millionFlorida residents and tourists spend in excessof $2 billion each year on the sport Florida Sea GrantCollege Program, 1993!. The number of recreationalfishermen has grown tremendously, and a continuingincrease in thenumber of anglersover the next 20 years is expected-particularlyalong Florida'ssouthwest coast. This growing pressure on fisheriesresources within the West Coast Inland NavigationDistrict and beyond makes information that can aid conservation of ourfisheries timely as well as useful.

Therich diversity of Florida'smarine fish species presents a challenge tothe angler wishing to identify hiscatch. Obviously, identification is a mustif oneis to participatein properconservation practices.

In manyinstances the firstquestion asked by an anglerupon catching a saltwaterfish is: "Whatthe heckis it?" A streamof otherquestions often follows: "Can I keepit? CanI eatit? Canit hurtme?" Thisbook is designedto answerthese questions and others at thetime the fish is caught.Learning moreabout the fish you catch should improve your chance of properlyapplying the regulations and conservingour fishery resources, Because fishing regulations change frequently, they are not covered in thisbook, but should be obtainedfrom state and federal agencies referenced on pagev.

Thereare well over 150 species of fishcaught by hookand line in localwaters. The 86 species includedin this bookwere selected by the authorand editors because they are the mostfrequently encountered.For each species, important information about distinguishing features, biology/habitat, and fishingmethods is provided.The often confusing common nicknames applied to eachfish are noted, as well as the fish's preferredcommon name.

Wehope that the information included inthis book will not only add to the angler's enjoyment offishing, butthat it willalso motivate anglers to takea moreactive role m conservingFlorida's outstanding fishing resources.

The Editors FISHING REGULATIONS

TheFlorida recreational angler is confronted with a complexset of stateand federal regulations fora widevariety offish species. These regulations include size limits, bag limits, gear restrictions, closed seasonsand special licenses. Even the experienced angler should keep the most recent summary of regulationshandy. Please remember: Understanding andabiding by these regulations isvital to the protectionof our fishery resources for present and future generations. A commoncomplaint from anglers isthat fishing regulations aretoo complex. Unfortunately, developing effectiveand fair regulations is no simple task. Developing oneregulation which fits all species is impracticalbecause ofdifferences inhabitat requirements, growth rates, age at reproductive maturity, numberof offspringproduced, abundance, and harvesting effort. Fishingregulations forFlorida waters out to 3 nauticalmiles on the Atlantic coast, out to 9 nautical mileson the Gulfcoast! are developedby the FloridaMarine Fisheries Cornrnission. Federal regulationsforGulf waters are developed bythe Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. Copiesofthe latest state and federal regulations aresometimes available from regional Fiorida Marine Patroloffices, county Sea Grant Extension offices, county tag offices, bai'l and tackle shops, and stores wherefishing gear is sold.Copies can always be obtained by writing to.

Federal:

Gulfof MexicoRegional Fishery Management Council LincolnCenter, Suite 331 5401 West KennedyBoulevard Tampa, FL 33609-2486 813!228-2815 FAX 813!225-7015

State: Florida Marine Fisheries Commission DouglasBuilding, Room 106 2540 Executive Center Circle West Tallahassee,FL 32301 904! 487-0554

Note:There is a saltwaterfishing license requirement forfishing in Florida,with someexceptions. information and licenses can be obtained from county tag offices,some bait and tackle shops, and some stores where fishing gear is sold. CATCH AND RELEASE

Oneof the best ways an angler can contribute tothe conservation offish along Florida's southwestern coastis to use catch and release techniques, There are indications thatFlorida's fish populations are beginningtobe stressed from angling, aswell as by habitat loss. Angters can help maintain healthy fishpopulations byreleasing their catch. Mere's how to do it properly:

Reeling in the Catch

~ Use barblesshooks or hookswith the barbsflattened or filed down.

~Set the hook immediately-this prevents the fish from swallowing thebait. ~If the fish is in deep water, work itto the surface slowly toallow itto adjust topressure changes. If in shallowwater, land the fish quickly-don't play it to exhaustion.

~Keep pliers, hook removers, and other release tools handy. Use hooks made of materials that rust quicklyin casethe fish has to bereleased with the hook in place.

Handling the Catch

~Minimize physical contact with the fish. If possible,leave the fish in thewater and use a toolto removethe hook or cut the leader, Don't use a netunless it's the only way you can control the fish. ~If youmust handle the fish, wear wet gloves or use a wetrag. Never use a dryrag to grasp a fish: it willremove too much slime and may eventually kill the fish.

~Keep the fish from thrashing byturning iton its back or by covering itseyes with a wetrag. Be careful notto stick fingers in the fish's eyes or gills. Be careful not to remove scales and mucus from the fish.

~ Returnthe fish to thewater as quicklyas possible.

Removing the Hook

~Back the hookout theopposite way it wentin.

~Use needle-nose pliers, hemostats or a hookoutto workthe hookout. ~If thehook can't be removed quickly or if thefish is hookeddeep inside its body, cut the leader as close as possibleto the fish's mouth.

~ Fora largefish in thewater, slip a gaffaround the leader and slide it downto the hook. To release the hook,lift the gaffupward as theangler pulls the leadertaut.

Releasingthe Ffsh

~Place the fish in thewater gently, supporting itsmid-section and tail until it swimsaway,

~ Reviveexhausted fish by movingit backand forth in thewater or towingit besidethe boatto force water throughits gills.

~Use an ice pick,needle or hookpoint to puncturethe expanded air bladderof fishtaken from deep water.

~Observe the fish. If it doesn'tswim away, retrieve it andtry again.

Remember: A released fish has an excellent chance of survivalwhen handled carefully and correctly.

Adapted from NationalMarine FisheriesService USING THE SPECIES DESCRIPTIONS

Parts of a Fish

Ftn

Text Outline

Preferred Common Name other common names

Description:

~ Distinguishingphysical characteristics ~ Confusionwith other species ~ Commonly-caughtweight; top-of-range weight

Biology/Habitat:

~ Wherethe speciesoccurs, according to life cycle and season ~ Habitatrequirements ~ Age/sizeat which reproductivematurity is reached ~ Feedinghabits

Fishing Notes:

~ Habitatswhere commonly caught ~ Baits used ~ Unusual behavior ~ Hazardsto the angler ~ Protection status ~ Edibility Snook robalo,old linesides,soapfish Description: Pointedhead with stronglyprotruding lower jaw !. Distinctiveblack lateralline !, Usuallyunder 10 lbs., can be over 50 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Commonly an inshorefish, but can be found offshore. Toleratesa wide rangeof salinities. Movesfrom bay and fresh watersto Gulfbeaches and passes in May-July spawning season!. Freshwater and brackish tidal creeks,salt marshes and seagrass beds are important nursery habitat. Juveniles begin spawning migrationswhen they start maturing 2-14 inches!. Closed seasons protect easily caught spawning fish summer!and fish stunned by coldweather winter!. FishingNotes: Caught under docks and piers, along mangrove shorelines, at mouths of tidal creeks,and along beaches and Gulf passes. Offshore, caught around shallow wrecks and reefs. At highertides, caught inbays near structures, mouths ofrivers, tidal creeks, and mangrove shorelines. Bait:live fish, shrimp, and crabs; lures. A regulatedspecies, Prime eating fish with firm, mild meat, but mustbe skinnedbefore cooking to avoida soapytaste.

Red Drum redfish,red, channel bass Description:Bronzish-red with down-turnedsnout, tiny teeth, and prominentblack spot at upperbase of tail !. Occasionallywith more than one black spot, rarelya dozen or more.Very rarely with no black spot. Mostcommonly under 10 Ibs, can reach 60 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Rapidly growing juveniles under 24 inches -3 yearsold! inhabit canals and mangrovesalong bays and creeks. Larger juveniles toabout 34 inches that are beginning to sexuallymature move to more open bay waters, schooling ongrass flats, along bars, and around Gulfpasses. Adults about 34+ inches! become fish of theopen Gulf where they roam in large schoolsof similar-sizedindividuals. When smail, consumes mostly shrimp and crabs; diet changes to otherfish as it growslarger. Spawning generally occurs near Gulf passes in latesummer and fall,peaking duffing September and October. May live 30+ years. FishingNotes: Popuiar gamefish noted for striking a wideassortment of baits, lures and spoons. Oftenspotted in veryshallow water by "tailing" a behaviorin whichthe top of thetail comes out of thewater as thefish rootsfor foodalong the bottom.A regulatedspecies. Edibility is good. Spotted Seatrout speckledtrout, speck, trout Description:Two "fangs' in upper jaw !. Pronouncedblack spots along back and on tail fin and seconddorsal fin !. Commonly1-5 Ibs, but can be up to 15 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Closely associated with seagrassbeds; feeds on smallfish and shrimp. Spawns from springto fall,probably in deeper portionsofbays. Can be sexually mature by end of 1styear; generally mature by three years of age.Attains 14-15 inches when 3 yearsold. Largerfish tend to befemales and can produce over 1,000,000eggs. Can live to ageof 8-10years. Conservation laws minimum size, bag limits! intendedto ensureadequate spawning. FishingNotes: Most are caught over shallow seagrass beds during higher water; deeper edges of grassbeds at lowerwater, Foundin channels,holes, and canals when water is cold. Common to findschools of fish similar in size;if undersized,move on! Mostcommonly takes live bait good; especiallyfleshshrimp!,gets mushybut jigsif notand iced slow-moving quickly. luresare very effec'live. ASand regulated Seatroutspecies. Edibility

silver trout, trout Description:Two "fangs" in upper jaw !, Lightcolored fish without distinctivemarkings. Rarely larger than 12-14 inches and 1 lb. Another species silver trout! is evensmaller andtends to be foundin deeper, moresaline waters. Distinguishing thesetwo speciesis difficult,and oftenthe namesare used interchangeably. Biology/Habitat:Prefers deeper water than spotted seatrout. Found on bare bottom and channels, oftenschooling around minor bottom features in baysor just off gulf beaches, Not much known of itsbiology, but is thoughtto spawnin springand summer. Juveniles are thought to preferlower salinitywaters, FishingNotes: Caught primarily onshrimp and shrimp-imitating jigsfished along the bottom. Edibilitygood if icedimmediately. Atlantic Croaker

croaker, hardhead

Description: Underslungmouth. Manytiny barbels along inner edge of lowerjaw ! distinguishcroaker from whiting another memberof the drum family which has a single rigidbarbel. Silver gray body with distinctpattern of wavy diagonal markingson upper sides. Namede- rived fram noises it makes. Gener- ally under t Ib, rarelyover 2 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Juveniles generally occur in shallowbay waters; adults more common in Gulf waters. More abundantonthe eastcoast. Spawnsoffshore in fall-winter. Lives 2-4 years. A bottom feeder. FishingNotes: Usuallycaughtwhilefishingforotherbottomfish. Best caughtwithsmallhooks andbits of shrimpor squid.Handle with care due to sharpgill coveredges. Edibility excellent.

whiting kingfish Description: Severalsimilar species occur in southwest Florida waters. For all, lowerjaw does not extendas far as upperjaw t!. Distinctivesingle chin barbelalways present!. Silvery-whitecolor; may be darkeron back and upper sides dependingon species.Almost uni- versallyknown as whitingin south- westFlorida; widely known as kingfishelsewhere. Usually less than t Ib, butcan be upto 3 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Most common along Gulf beaches. Also found on sandand mud bottom areas of bays. A bottomfeeder that uses its smallmouth and chin barbel ta locateprey, FishingNotes: Mostoflen caught on sandfleas ar bitsof shrimpon small hooks. Fish bait an bottom. Edibilityexcellent. Striped Mojarra

sand bream Description:High dorsal fin. Body dark olive green above,tan to silvery on sides. Conspicuous,dark horizontalstnpes on body sides, except towardbelly. Small mouth; flexiblemembranes enable the lips to be extendedoutward. Usually under t lb, can reach 3 lbs. Biology/Habitat: An inshore, schoolingfish most common on sandy or otheropen bottoms; often found in canals and waterways. Usesits extendable mouth to probethe bottom for small invertebrates worms, shrimp, crabs, etc.l. FishingNotes: Will readilytake bitsofshrimp or other cut bait. Dueto smallmouth size, best caughton small hooks. Schoolsof like-sizedfish can often be seen in shallowwater and can be caughtwith a hand-throwncast net. Edibilityis verygood.

Silver Perch sugar trout, croaker,sand perch Description:Underslung mouth with tiny teeth which often go un- noticed. Silvery-whItein color, dark olivegreen to bluishon top. Fins may be tingedwith pale yellow. A smallfish generallyunder t Ib, Biology/Habitat: A bottomfeeder of open inlandwaters; also found in creeksand canals. Seldom found offshore in the Gulf. Whenyoung, feeds on smallshrimp and shrimp-likeanimals. Diet changes to baitfishsuch as anchoviesas thefish grows larger. Spawns springto earlysummer. Three-year-old fish may be only 7 inches>n length. FishingNotes: Often found in largeschools, so if youcatch one there may be more. Best caught on verysmall natural baits: pieces of cut shrimpor squidwork well. Smallmouth means that a smallhook works best. Makes good live bait for many species of largerfish. Edibiity excellent, Black Drum

drum Description: Heavy-setfish with distinctivebarbels under chin !. Youngfish upto about10 Ibs! have pronouncedblack verticalbars that graduallyfade with age. Oftenmis- taken for sheepsheadwhich has narrower and more numerous black bands and has no barbels. Often 30-50 Ibs; can be well over 100 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Principally found inshore over sand and sandy-mud bottoms and near bridges, docks,piers, seawalls and oyster bars. Young,at about4 inches,move from muddy shallows to deeperwater. Bottom-feeder:uses barbels to locatefood by feel. Grindingthroat teeth enable it to crushclams, oysters and crabs, Schools form in springand migrate to spawnnear mouths of rivers andbays. Canattain 20 Ibsby age5, 60 Ibsby age10. FishingNotes: Fish natural baits brokencrab, clams, shrimp! an bottom,usually within a fewfeet of bridgeand pier pilings, Best fishing is in coolermonths. Deep drumming noise often heard when landed.A regulatedspecies. Small fish upto 10-15Ibs! good to eat;large fish tend to be tough and to have parasiticinfections.

Sheepshead convictfish, zebra fish Description: Largehead with prominentteeth, Human-likeinci- sors in front, roundedgrinding teeth behind them. Distinctive black and white verticalbars on body sides. Oftenconfused with juvenileblack drum. Usuallyunder 5 Ibs,can reachnearly 20 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Can toleratea widerange of salinity.Usually found around docks, piers, reefs, rocks, mangraves, oyster bars, and anywhereelse barnacles and oysters are found. Often found in coastalrivers. Feedsan shellfish suchas crabsand shrimp, barnacles and small bivalves. Young often inhabit grassy flats before dispersingto adulthabitat. In winter,larger adults migrate offshore to spawnnear ledges and reefs in water depthsup to about 50 feet. FishingNotes: Mostcommonly caught during winter, especially at heightof spawningseason. Fish baits an the bottom for best results; use small hooks. Good baits include fiddler crabs, sand fleas, shrimp,bits of clam or oyster. Be alert for small nibbles;sheepshead are notoriousfor stealingbait. Smallfish less than one pound do notyield much meat and should be released. Edibilityexcellent; difficult ta clean due to tough scalesand bones. Porgy joltheadporgy Description:Small mouth, high bluntforehead, large eyes, long continuousdorsal fin, and forked tail fin. Front incisor-like teeth and rear grindingteeth in bothjaws. Lightor white body sides. There are several similarspecies of porgywhich are difficultto distinguish;most are un- der3 Ibsthough the jolthead porgy can exceed 20 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Most porgy species ofsouthwest Florida are Gulf bottom fishes. Found singly or in smallgroups, usually around edge of naturalor artificialreefs. Strong teeth used to crushhard- shelledanimals such as crustaceans, snails, and clams; occasionally eats small fishes. AllFishinghaveNotes:firm whiteUsually meat, caught on or near bottom using small hooks andSpottail shrimp orPinfish squid for bait.

spottail bream Description: Small mouthwith prominent,nipping teeth. Bluish- brownabove, white body sides. Prominentblack spot at base of tail !. Juveniieshave faint vertical barson bodysides. Usuallyless than t lb, bul can reachover 2 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Juvenilesfound nearjetties and piers in baywaters not far from the Gulf. Adults occur around reefs in Gulf.Sharp teethused to pickfood items from bottom; strong rnolars used to crusha varietyof prey. FishingNotes: Usessrnallrnouthtostealbaits. Bestcaughton small hooks baited withbitsof shrimpfished on bottom. Light tackle enables the angler to betterdetect nibbling bites. Usually not eaten due to small size. Pinfish

sai! ors choice Description:Small mouth with incisor-like teeth. Distinctive black spotbehind the gill cover f!. Body bluish-silver back darkerthan belly! with blue and orange-yellowhorizontal stripesoverlaid by 4-6 gray-shad- ed vertical bars. Calledpinfish becauseof sharp dorsalspines. A memberof the porgyfamily. Small fish; usually less than 8 inches,but can reach 3 lbs. Biology/Habitat:One of the mostcommon fish associated with seagrass beds, Alsofound around bridge,pier, and marker pilings and around natural and artificial reefs in baysand Gulf, Spawning thoughtto occurin offshorewaters. Can grow to sixinches in firstyear. Eats a widevariety of worms,crustaceans and mollusks. Small individuals also consume plant matter. A majorfood item of the bottlenosedolphin. FishingNotes: Popular live bait. Caught on very smal! hooks baited with tiny bits of just about any bait. Notoriousbait stealers, due to smallmouth and sharp teeth, Notusually considered a food fish.

Pigfish Description:Small mouth with tiny, barelynoticeable teeth. Graybody; tends to have bluish cast to back. Gold to bronze dashes and broken line markingstend to form horizontal patternson sides,often forming obliquelines on cheeksand upper back. A memberof the grunt family. Small fish usuallyless than 8 inches, but can reach over 1 lb.

Biology/Habitat:Smaller specimens common on seagrassbeds; larger specimens more common around naturaland artificialreefs in the Gulf to about60 foot water depths. Bottomfeeder that searchesthrough sediments for worms,crustaceans, and mollusks.

FishingNotes: Popularlive bait. Caughton smallhooks with tiny bits of bait, Oftenmakes gruntingsound when handled in theboat; hence the namepigfish. Good to eatthough not often eaten due to small size. White Grunt KeyWest grunt, gray snapper, flannelmouth grunt, Gulf snapper Description:Bright orange mouth lining. Gray bodywith blue horizontal stripeson sides of head, Scales abovelateral line noticeably larger than scales below lateral line. Pro- ducessound by grinding"throat teeth";hence the namegrunt. Com- monlyto 1 Ib; sometimesto about3 Ibs, can reach8 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Primarily a Gulf resident, found near reefs and wrecks. Grows slowly: sexual maturityreached during third year at sizeof about10 inches. Roots through sediment far worms, crustaceans, and mollusks; also eats small fish, FishFishingbaitNotes:on bottom. OflenEdibilitytaken inexcellent. large numbers around Gulf reefs. LiveTomtatebait or cut baitGruntwill work.

silvergrunt Description:Bright orange mouth lining. Light colored:gray to tan on back. Yellowta brownstripe from head to base of tail fin !. Black blotchat baseof tailfin fadesaway in largerspecimens, One of the smallestgrunts: can reach 10-11 inchesand weigh less than 1 lb. Biology/Habitat;A Gulf bottom fish found around reefs and hard bottom areas. Often in large schoolsof similarsized fish. Preyedupon by snappersand groupers. FishingNotes: Readily caught on a varietyaf cutbait. Schools of tomtate grunt will often plague reeffishermen by monopolizing bait, sometimes forcing an angler to changelocation. Frequently used as bait for larger fish. Not usuallyeaten, due to small size. TaI'poA sabalo,silver king Description:Bluish-gray back with silver sides. Large,heavy scales. Stronglyprotruding lower jaws !. Lastray of dorsalfin elongated !. Specimensfrom inland waters can takeon a yellowishor goldentinge. Specimensunder about 40 lbsare juveniles;adults average 70-100 ibs and can reach 300 lbs. Biology/Habitat.Juveniles prefer low-salinity backwaters often ranging many miles inland. Moveinto larger streams and estuaries as they grow. Most adults leave the Southwest Florida coastalarea in winter,return for spring spawning, Huge schools form in Gulfpasses in Mayand June.Often seen "rolling" surfacing to gulp air!. Dispersethroughout the area in summerand fall. Reachsexual maturity at approximately 6-7years of age around4 feetin length!. FishingNotes: Prized game fish due to size,strength and spectacular leaps when hooked. Most fishare caught March through October, especially during spring spawning. Live baits and artificial luresare used. A highlyregulated species; usually released alive. Edibility poor; very oily and bony.

I.adyf ish poorman's tarpon, ten-pounder Description: Longslender fish withlarge eyes and abrasive jaws for graspingprey. Singledorsal fin occursrelatively far backon the body!. Uniformlysilver body with slightlydarker, greenish-blue back. Usuallyunder 3 Ibs;can reach 10 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Closely related to tarpon.Like tarpon can tolerate a widerange of salinity:can be found from Gulf waters -- generally lessthan 20 ft deep inlandto freshwater. Usually found in openwater, but also in canalsand waterways.Feeds primarily on smaltfish. FishingNotes: Popular sport fish because of aggressivestrikes and spectacular tarpon-like leaps called"poor man's tarpon" due to smaller size!. Sornetirnes found in schools ofsimilar-sized fish. Schoolsoften located by flocks of feeding seabirds. Will hit just about any natural or artificial bait. Fishingup off the bottom provides best results. Abrasive jaws can wear through light fishing line: useheavy leader. Not generally eaten. Needlefish Description:Long slender fish with a needle-pointedjaw full of sharp teeth. Dorsal and anal fins far back on body. Greenishto bluishon back,shading to silveryon belly. Similarin appearanceto ballyhoo andhalfbeak, but has a distinguishing elongateupper jaw. Usually undert2 incheslong, can exceed 20 inches.

Biology/Habitat: Foundin inland watersaround mangroves, incanals around docks and piers, and in the Gulf particularly along beaches,Often seen just under the surface where it looks much like a floatingstick. Also seen at nightnear lighted piers and bridges. Aggressive predator; feeds on other fish and shrimp, Evades predationby skippingalong surface. FishingNotes: For its size will take amazingly large baits, sometimes lures. Sometimes used as livebait for snook and other inshore gamefish. Handle carefully since tiny sharp teeth can slice a finger. Generallytoo small to eat.

Flying Fish Description:Bluish-green, torpedo- shapedfish with extremely elongated pectoralfins used as "wings"to enablegliding over the water'ssur- face. Relatedto ballyhooand half- beaks. Small fish: can reach t lb. Biology/Habitat:Found primarily in the Gulf15 milesor moreaway from land;rarely found in baywaters. Oflenseen "flying" away from a movingboat. Makes a rapidleap into the air, spreads large pectoral fins, and glides for a long distance,sometimes firming its tail furiously foradded boosts. Known tofly into boat lights at night. FishingNotes: Sometimes used as bait, Can indicate the presence oflarger fish; a schoolof flyingfish taking to the air may be trying to escape a predator. Although sometimes consumed in remoteisland communities, not generally considered a foodfish. Sea Catfish

hardhead, rnudcat Description: Small mouth. Lacks long dorsaland pectoralspine fila- mentsfound on gafftopsailcatfish. Has three pairs of barbels "whiskers"! - one on the upperjaw, two on the iowerjaw !. Maximumsize is about 3 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Feeds along the bottom,using barbelsto assist in locatingprey. Prefersmarine environments, but occasionallyenters brackish and fresh waters. Inhabitsturbid watersover sand and mud bottoms. Malesbrood young in their mouth%. Fishing Notes: Opportunisticbottom feeder that takesjust aboutany bait. Not generallyconsid- ered a gamefish, but has recreationalvalue as a catch-and-releasespecies, As with other catfish, handlewith extremecaution; barbed spines in dorsaland pectoralfins are poisonous, Fleshis seldom eaten.

Gafftopsail Catfish

sailcat Description: Long "whiskers"on each side of wide mouth!. Distinguishedfrom hardheadcatfish by extremelylong filamentson the dorsaland pectoralspines !. Color is uniformsteel-blue above, white below. Can reachup to 8 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Prefersinterrnedi- ate salinityand is primarilyan inshorefish of the bays and rivers. Sometimesfound up to several milesout in Gulf. Malesbrood young in theirmouth and do notfeed during brooding, FishingNotes: Aggressivefeeder that will take any bait fishedon bottom. Will striketopwater lures, Handlewith care; there is a rigid, poisonous,barbed spine in the dorsalfin and each pectoral fin. Theseare weil positionedto injurean angler'shand. Puncturescause excruciating pain and sweliingin some cases. Contraryto popularbelief, edibility is good. Mullet blackmullet, striped mullet, silvermullet, lisa, finger mullet Description: Three similarmullet speciesoccur in southwestFlorida. Blackmullet is predominant;silver mullet is not uncommon. All have cylindricalbody, with small toothless mouthand widelyseparated dorsal fins. Seriesof dark spots form con- spicuousstripes on sides. Upper bodybluish-gray, shading to a whitebelly. Usuallyunder 3 Ibs;sometimes over 10 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Talerates a widerange of salinityand occurs from fresh water streams ta Gulf waters.Large schools of blackmullet congregate in Nov.-Dec. and migrate offshore to spawn.In southwestFlorida, starts maturing sexually atsize of 9-14 inches to2 yearsofage!. Moderately long-livedfish that attains length of 24inches after six years. Feeds by sucking up bottom surface mudwhich contains algae and organic material. Offen jumps for no apparent reason. FishingNotes: Commonlycaught recreationally with cast nets, Sometimes taken from freshwater withtiny, baited hooks. Juveniles finger mullet! are popular sportfishing bait. A regulatedspecies. A goodeating fish when fresh. Spoils easily; should be quickly iced.

Gulf Flounder flounder,flatfish, fluke Description: A flat fish with both eyes on top side. Large sharp teeth. Top side mottledbrown; bottom side white. Dorsal and anal fins runalmost full lengthof body. Mostcommon species among several found in SW FL; can be distinguishedfrom others by threepromi- nent spots in triangularpattern on top side. Canreach 5 lbs. Southernflounder is morecommon on Florida'seast coast; can reach 15 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Found on sandybottoms both inland and out in the Gulfto about60 feetof water, Liesflat on the bottom inwait for passing prey. Will aggressively chase after passing fish, shrimp, etc.Camouflages itselfby changing color to match surroundings andby covering itself with sand, leavingonly eyes exposed. FishingNotes: Aggressive feeder which will chase a passingbait or lure. Generally caught within a fewfeet of the bottom, Live shrimp and small fish make excellent baits as do jigs and spoons. A regulatedspecies. Edibility excellent. Toadfish oystertoad, oyster cracker, mother-in-law fish

Description:Broad flattened head withfleshy protrusions from head and aroundlarge mouth t!. Muted in color with dark brownsand yel- lows predominating.Small fish - up to maximum of 2 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Commonlyan inshorefish, but can be found in offshorewaters. Concealsitself aroundpilings, oyster reefs, rocks, or in anyhole or hidingplace it canfind. Ambushesa varietyof passingprey; will also crush oystersand crabs. Unusualfish in lhatmales brood young. Male prepares nest in whichone to severalfemales may deposit eggs. Maleemits a boatwhistle-likecall to attractfemales, Male protectsand cleans eggs until young fish become free-swimming -t2 days!. FishingNotes: Willtakeany type ofbait fishedonbottom. Handle with care! Powerfuljawsused to crushoysters can deliver a vise-likebite. Reportedto beedible, but rarely eaten because of small size and unusualappearance.

Sea Robin

Description: Broad,armor-plated head adornedwith spikes. Triangu- lar, taperedbody. Largepectoral finsspread like bird wings hence the name sea robin!. Lowerpecto- ral fin-raysappear leg-like ! and are used for walkingand probing. Severaldifferent species occur local- ly. Smallfish, generally under 1 lb. Biology/Habitat:A bottomfish foundin bothbay and Gulf waters. Uses fins to fanand probe the bottomin searchof worms, mollusks and crustaceans. FishingNotes: Young anglers are fascinated bythis strange-looking fish. Caught by baits fished on bottom. Flesh is edible,but seldomeaten as there is very little meat, Lizards ish snakefish,sand diver Description: Pointed"lizard-like" headwith tiny sharp teeth !. Cy- lindricalbody. Dull brownwith white spots on back; darkerbrown dia- mond-shapedmarkings on lower side. Bellyand throat usually white. Usuallya smallfish; up to about2 lbs. Biology/Habitat;Found in rivers, bays,shallow saltwater creeks, along beaches, and offshore toa depthofseveral hundred feet, Lieson bottom orburies itself with only eyes exposed. Aggressive feeder; darts up from bottom to captureprey. FishingNotes: Often caught with live or dead bait on the bottom, butwill also take a lure.Anglers areoften surprised tocatch lizardfish not much larger than the lure. Not considered a food fish, but eaten in some parts of the world.

Spadefish angel fish Description: Disk-shaped,Blunt headwith small mouth. Silvery to dark tan in color. Dark brown vertical barpattern is sometimesstriking- ly distinctand sometimes barely noticeable.Larger fish generally havea darkerbackground, with less distinctivebars. Usually under 3 Ibs; can reach 16 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Schools ofspadefish afew individuals toseveral hundreds! aregenerally associatedwith structure reefs, wrecks, pilings, bouys, etc.!, On calm days schools sometimes can beseen lolling at the surface with the tips of their dorsal fins out of the water, During summer monthssuch behavior may indicate spawning activity. Consumes a diversity offood items, including jellyfish,sponges, and sea squirts. FishingNotes; Difficultto hookbecause of smallmouth and unusual diet. Doesn'tventure far fromstructure. Best caught onlight tackle and very smail hooks. Good baits are small strips of squidand bits of shrimp, The school may follow a hookedfishback to the boat. Edibility isgood. Richmeat spoils rapidly. Gray Triggers'ish triggerfish Description:Tiny mouth with sharp protrudingteeth !. First spine of dorsalfin a rigid spike !. When this spine is erect, it canbe "unlocked"only by depressinglhe smallerspike just behindit the 'trigger"!.Olive green to graybody color. Tough,sandpapery skin, Averagesunder 2 Ibs, can reach5 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Found around reefs and wrecks inthe Gulf. Seldom caught inbay waters. Primarilya bottom fish, but sornetirnes will slowly swim up and down through the water column. Layseggs in guardednest. Powerful teeth enable it ta crushand feed on heavily-shelled animals suchas crabs,barnacles and even spiny urchins. FishingNotes: Usualiycaughtonornear bottom. Because ofsmallrnouth size, verysmallhooks workbest. Wholeor cutshrimp preferred, but cut squid or fishcan be effective,Will sometimes takea verysmall jig bouncedalong the bottom. Tough hide makes cleaning a chore,but flesh is excellenteating.

Orange Filefish Description: Tinymouth with pro- trudingsharp teeth. Serrateddorsal spinealmost always bent or irregu- lar. Tough,sandpaper-like skin with light orangesplotches on a brownto grayishbackground. Can weigh up to 3 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Usually found in inshore waters. Most common aroundstructure pilings,docks and reefs!,occasionally onseagrass beds. Widely varied diet includes sponges, sea whips, hydraids, andsoft-bodied invertebrates. Toavoid predators, can tightly wedge itself into crevices by distendingits belly. FishingNotes: Often rises up from the bottom to pickat baitsbeing retrieved; will then hang just beneaththe boat. Very sluggish, but adept at removingbait with quick nips of smallteeth, Best caughtwith very small hooks and bits of shrimp or other cut bait. Edible although not commonly eaten. Southern Puffer

blowfish, blow toad Description: Beak-shapedmouth with two powerfulteeth aboveand two below. Lightcolored fish with pale tan ringsand splotches; smooth, scaleless skin, Several speciesof pufferfishes occur in local waters. Smallfish, usuallyless than 1 lb. Biology/Habitat: Can occur in wide rangeof habitals,including Gulf waters, but most common around inshore sea grass beds. Powerfulteeth are used to crushany small animal it cancapture, including crabs, clams, shrimp, worms,etc. When alarmed,inflates with water or air to preventbeing swallowedby largerfish, FishingNotes: A smallmouth and heavy teeth make it difficultto hookthis fish infamousfor its abilityto "steal"bait!. Takecare when handling: sharp teeth can deliver a nastybite. Difficultto distinguishfram other species af pufferfishes, many of which produce an extremely toxic poison and canonly be eatenif correctlyand carefully cleaned. Meat is delicious.

Burrfish porcupinefish, spiny puffer Description: Smallbeak-like mouthsimilar to southernpuffer. Easilydistinguished by the numerous spinescovering the body. Usu- ally less than 1 Ib, but have been reportedto reach 18 inchesin length. Biology/Habitat: Foundon inshore seagrassbeds, Ableto inflateitself with water or air}to discouragepredators. FishingNotes: Sometimescaught by anglersseeking trout or othersporlfish on seagrassbeds. Can be difficultto handlebecause of spines. Can delivera nastybite. Producescroaking sounds when out of the water. Not usuallyeaten. Codfish

boxfish Description: Trademark"horns" over the eyes !. Tiny mouthwith parrot-likebeak. Bodycolored with blue lines and scrawls. Called boxfish becausehead and mostof body are enclosed in a hard boxlike "shell." The "shell"is so rigid that the fish is able to move only its tail and fins, and its eyes and mouth. Smallfish: generallyunder 1 Ib, Biology/Habitat:Usually found around inshore seagrass beds. Occasionallyfound in Gulfwaters aroundpatch reefs. FishingNotes: Oftenseen in shallowsbyanglers trout-fishing. Seldom caught due to smallsize andsmall mouth; sometimes caught in nets. Thereis a smallbut very good finger-sized piece of meat in the lower body.

Leatherj acket yellowtail,skipIack Description: Very thin body; resembles a small mackerel. Sides generallylight-colored or white; tail bright yellow !. Sharpdorsal and anal fins. Rearparts of dorsaland anal fins consist of a series of finlets ! characteristicof mackerelsand tunas. Finletsare modified,sepa- rate rays behindthe mainpart of dorsaland anal fins; they serve to controlturbulence when swimming. Generally under 1 lb. Biology/Habitat:Common both around inshore seagrass beds and in theGulf around bars and reefs. Veryaggressive feeder which preys upon small fish and shrimp. Related to thejack family. FishingNotes: Dueto aggressivenature, is oftencaught on baitsand lures intended for much largerfish. Occasionallyused for baitfor largerfish; most are released. Handle with extreme caution;fins carry a poison,making punctures very painful, Aching and throbbing from such a wound can persistfor hours. Edibilitynot known. Pompano Description: Short,blunt snout I1!. Small mouthwith soft, rubberylips. Silverywhite body color. Commonly 1-2 Ibs; can reachabout 8 lbs. Extremelydifficult ta distinguishfrom youngpermit. Sometimesconfused with jack crevalle.

Biology/Habitat: Pompanofeeds at the bottom,commonly along Gulf beachesand aroundpasses. For- agesfor coquinaclams and sand fleas in the surfzone. Sometimesfound far up in bays,and occasionallyseveral miles out into the Gulf. Growsrapidly; attains maturity in 1-2years, Lives3-4 years. Fishing Notes: Springand autumnruns are commonalong southwest coast beaches. Best baits includesand fleas, fiddlercrabs, shrimp or smalljigs workedwith a slowretrieve on the bottom. A regulatedspecies, Highlysought as a foodfish.

Permit

Description: Disk-shaped,silvery- coloredfish, sometimeswith yellow highlightson belly and lowerfins. Smallmouth with rubberylips and tiny teeth. Nearlyidentical in appearanceto pompanowhen small; growsmuch larger than pompano and has a deeper,more disk-shaped body. Usuallyunder 15 Ibs, can exceed 40 lbs. Biology/Habitat Small individuals under about3 poundsoften schoolwith pompanoalong Gulf beachesand in inlandwaters around reefs and piers. Largerindividuals gather in schoolsaround Gulf wrecksand reefsout to about 100 feet of water. Primarilyeats crabs,shrimp and other crustaceans. FishingNotes: Fishon bottomalong the beach or aroundpasses for smallerpermit. Best baits arecrabs and shrimp. Gulf wreck fishing is bestdone by suspendingcrabs just under the surface, evenin 100feet of water.A regulatedspecies. Edibility is verygood: much like pompano. Greater Amberjack amberjack,jack, A.J. Description:Head bluntly pointed; heavyjaws. Darkamber colored bar extendsthrough eye to begin- ningof dorsalfin !. Olivegreen on back, tan to white on sides and belly. Oftenwith broad, diffuse yellowishstripe along midside. Commonlyto 50 Ibs,can reach 150 lbs. Biology Habitat:Inhabits the open Gulf, usually in40 feet or more of water depth, Almost always foundaround structure with high verticaI relief. Schools throughout the entire water column. Larger fishbecome more solitary. Feeds primarily on a widevariety of fish; also eats crabs and squid. FishingNotes: Most are caught around wrecks inthe Gulf. Fish at various depths tolocate. Just aboutany small live fish makes a goodbait. Occasionally willhit dead baits and lures. Famous for itstenacious fighting ability. Good eating; best if bledimmediately. A regulated species. Large fish often harborharmless worms in flesh; thesecan be easilyseen and cut out.

Jack Crevalle yellowjack, jack Description:High blunt head. Powerfuljaws with pronounced teeth, Prominentblack opercular spot!. Olivecolored above; can haveyellowish lower body and anal fin !. Pronouncedhard ridge alongcenter of bodynear tail !, Commonlyweighs 2-5 lbs., but larger fish can reach around 15 Ibs inshore,as muchas 50 Ibs offshore. Biology/Habitat:Free roaming fish that can appear along Gulf coast at anytime, often in large schoolsofsimilar sized fish largefish 'lend to become increasingly solitary!. A commonfeeding tacticis to cornerbait fish against a seawallorother structure. Tolerates a wide range of salinities andmay venture into fresh water. Thought to spawnoffshore. FishingNotes: Schools ofjack crevalle are indicated byjumping fish and "boiling" water when they gointo a feedingfrenzy. Bait; live fish and shrimp, Rapidly retrieved spoons and lures work well. Powerfulfighter. Although itsdark flesh is not appreciated byevery angler, it is easily filleted and especiallygood smoked. Blue Runner

hardtail Description:Bluish-green to olive greenan back,silver to brassy below.Distinctive black opercular spot!. Pronouncedhard ridge alongcenterline of bodynear tail. Usuallyunder two Ibs, can reach4-6 lbs.

Biology/Habitat; Commonin nearshoreGulf waters aut to about 10 miles, often along bars and around passes, Occasionally foundin bay waters around arlificial reefs and piers. Often found in large schools ofsimilar-sized fish. FishingNotes: Frequently caught by anglers fishing for spanish mackerel with which blue runner school.Aggressive feeder. Hits live baits and lures. Used as live bait for sharks and barracuda. Edibilityfair; dark rich meat has strong flavor.

Bluefish blue,snapper small fish!, chopper large fish! Description:Large mouth with powerfuljaws and large sharp teeth !. Greenishto bluishalong back, silveron sidesand belly. Usually has a blackish blotch at base of pectoralfin !, First dorsalfin separatedfram seconddorsal fin !. Medium-sizedfish: most under 5 lbs. Commonlyreaches 10 Ibs;can exceed 20 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Bluefish school by size and make seasonal migrations. Allsizes are more cornrnonalong Gulf beaches and passes. Larger fish feed in moreopen waters, smaller fish enter baysand rivers. Voracious predator that feeds on small fish. Can attain 7 lbsin 5 years,and 15 Ibs in 10 years. Fishingh'Mes: Readily takes most live and artificial baits; will take cut natural bait also. Some- timestaken in largenumbers when schooling. Some anglers use wire leaders to avoidcut-offs from sharpteeth. Be wary of teeth when handling. A regulated species, Edibility ofsmaller fish is good, butlarger specimens areconsidered bymany to be too oily. Southern Stingray Description:Mouth located on underside.Very broad, wing-like pec- toraifins !. Slendertail longer thanbody !. Venomousbarbed spineat baseof tail !. Generally tan to brawnin color, but undersides arealways white. Usuallyunder 5 Ibs but can exceed l00 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Inhabits coastal waters. Most commonalong Gulf beachesduring warmer months. Elottorn feeder which preys on worms, clams, shrimp, crabs and smallfish, Powerful grinding teeth for crushing shells. Locates prey by digging with its pectoral fins. Shallow,bowl-shaped depressions inbottom surface often result from such feeding activity. A few fully-formedyoung are born live each year, Hides by partially burying itself in the boffom. FishingNotes: Use dead or live bait fished on the bottom. Cleaning meat from pectoral finscan be a chore;fins must be skinned and meat separated from cartilage. Wandie with extreme caution to avoidpainful puncture wound fram spine; waders should shuffle feet along bottom Injuries result fromstepping directly onthe stingray!, Soak injury inhot water. Seldom eaten, but is edible.

Skate Description;Tan colored with white underside. Mouthlocated about underthe eyes. Similarin appearance to southernstingray, but with a tail onlyas longas the bodyand meaty ali theway to its endwith fleshy lobes!. Unlikethe stingray, does nothave a poisonousbarb near the base of the tail. Smallerrelative of the ray;usually under 3 Ibs,but can reach 20, Biology/Habitat:Exclusively a bottom feeder. Generally foundin 5-100 feet of water, both in bays andin the Gulf. Each developing eggencapsulated ina dark, leathery case referred toas devil' s arsailor's purse!. Reaches sexual maturity atabout 2 feetin length. FishingNotes; Use dead orlive bait fished onbottom. Good eating, butlike stingrays, e difficult to clean. Cow Nosed Ray bat ray, bat Description: Similarto other rays and skatesin appearance.Head is blunt,square-shaped, and similarin appearanceto a cow'snose !. Uniformdark brownon top and lighteron the bottom,sometimes with a yellowishtinge. Tail is usually not longerthan the body,and has a basalspine !. Commonlyunder 25 Ibs, but can reach 60 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Toleratesa wide rangeof salinities:can be found in bays, estuariesand Gulf waters. Often seen swimmingnear the surfacein large schools. Whenwing tips of this fish come out of the water as it swims,they can be mistakenfor sharkfins. Bottomfeeder. Primarilyeats crustaceans.Gestation period is t t-t 2 months. Youngare born live. Fishing Notes: Will take baits fishedon the bottom, However,many caught on hook and line are actuallysnagged as they swim by and pick up the line with their wide wingspan. Requirescareful handlingdue to barbedspine. Edibilityis consideredpoor comparedto other rays and skates.

Spotted Eagle Ray Description: Easilydistinguished from other rays by light spots on the dark back t!. Undersidewhite. Can measure over 7 feet across and weigh up to 500 lbs. Blacktail can be twice as long as body. Biology/Habitat; Occursin warmer t watersthroughout the world. Usual- ly seen swimmingsingly cruisingthe flats in severalfeet of water,but can be seen in pairs or in large schools. Like other large rays,can be seen executingspectacular leaps out of the water. On rare occasions,eagle rays have landedin boatson such leaps.

Fishing Notes: A protectedspecies. Any spottedeagle ray caughtmust be returnedunharmed to the water. Guitarfish Description:Resembles a longthin stingraywith a shark-liketail: ray- like flat head;thick, taperedshark- likebody. Mouthand gill slitson underside. Two well-developeddor- sal fins. Brownishabove, with numeroussmall light spots. Undersidelight or whitish,Rough shark-likeskin. Relatedto raysand sharks. Commonlyabout 2 1/2 feet in length. Biology/Habitat:A bottom feeder of inlandwaters, much like stingrays. Probes bottom for crustaceans.Young are born live. FishingNotes: An unusual catch: guitarfish are not abundant and it is possibleto fishfor years withoutcatching one. Mostare caught on shrimpfished on bottom.

Sawfish

Description: Unmistakable"saw" bill in front resembles a double- edged hedgetrimmer! Mouthon undersidebelow the eyes. A species of ray that is relatedto the sharks. Has roughscaleless skin likea shark,Large fish: lengths well over 10 fee! have been reported. Biology/Habitat:Generally a shallow water fish of inshorebars, man- groveedges, and seagrass beds. Occasionallyfound along Gulf beaches. Bottom feeder that locatesprey by stirring the bottom with its 'saw." Also attacks schools of smallfishes by slashing sidewayswith its "saw"and then eating the wounded fish. FishingNotes; Occasionally caught on the bottom on shrimp or cu! bait; is somewhat sluggish. A protectedspecies now rarely seen. If caughtmust be releasedunharmed, Sharks

Almostall sharks caught by recreational anglers in SouthwestFlorida waters will be among the 12 speciestreated in thisbook. Species illustrations have been grouped for ease of comparison. Characteristicscommon to all sharksare describedbelow; features particular to each of the 12 species are coveredin the individualdescriptions.

Description:A skeletonof cartilagedistinguishes sharks and rays from bony fishes. Skin has a tough,sandpapery texture. Sensory abilities include smell, motion detection, sight and electra- location the ability to detectelectrical currents generated by the nervoussystem of livingorgan- isms!.

Biology/kabitat:Sharks are slow growing, long-lived fishes which produce small numbers of offspring.Young of mostspecies are born live; others suchas nurseshark! hatch from a leathery egg case laid on the bottom.

FishingNotes: Due to excellentsense of smell,canbe attracted by chumming, Will scavenge deadbaits but usually take live baits best. Like most predators, are attracted by weakened or strugglingprey. Can be found fram tap to bottomof the water column, so fish at a varietyof depths. Wireleader recommended ta avoid cutoffs from sharp teeth. Roughskin can wear through mono- filamentline, so usea leaderlonger than the length of the sharkbeing sought. All speciesare undermanagement regulations. All sharks are edible, but must be bled and iced promptly after captureto maintainquality.

SilkyShark A medium-sizedshark. Second dorsal fin has long, trailing free tip, Skinsmoother thanmost other sharks. Found in Gulfwaters, usually well offshore. Feeds on fishes,crabs and squid.Can reach 10 ft.

DuskyShark Usuallyfound in Gulfwaters, sometimes in deeper Gulf passes. Most often caughtin thecooler months. Young born live at a sizeof about 3 ft. Canreach 12 ft.

BrownShark Also calledsandbar shark, Usually found just outside Gulf passes. Most frequentlycaught in coolermonths. Migrates south in schoolsto winteringgrounds from N,C. to Florida. Can reach 10 ft.

TigerShark Younghave "tiger" stripes which become less distinct on larger specimens. Usually foundin Gulfwaters. Live-born pups measure 18-19 inches at birth. Oneof the largestof the sharks:can reach up to 18ff andover 1,000 lbs. HammerheadShark Easily recognized"harnrner" shape of head. Sometimesconfused with bonnetheadshark, When small,found in bay waters,especially during spring months; larger hammerheadsmore commonin the Gulf. Often basks nearlymotionless at the surfaceon calm days. Knownto formlarge schools. One of the mostdifficult sharks to getto bitea bait. Can reach 20 fl and 1,000 lbs.

BonnetheadShark A small sharkwith a spade-shapedhead; often mistakenfor a juvenile hammerhead.Sometimes called shovelnose shark. Commonin both bay and Gulf watersyear round. Feedson crustaceansincluding shrimp and crabs. Can reach5 ft.

Blacktip Shark Distinguishing blacktip on dorsaland pectoralfins; often confusedwith spinner shark which has stmilarblack tip on anal fin. Probablythe mostcommonly caught shark in bays and riversduring summer months. Popularsport fish; will jump when hooked. Medium-sizedshark to about 8 ft in length.

Spinner Shark A slendershark, Longer,more pointed snout; smalle~ eyes; and blackon anal fin distinguishit from the blacktipshark, Morecommonly found in offshorewaters, Knownfor making impressivespinning leaps. Can reach8 ft.

Blacknose Shark Distinctive black moustacheon tip of snout. Often mistakenfor lemonshark due to its yellowishcolor. One of the mostcommon small Gulf sharks. Sometimesfound in bay watersnear Gulf passes. Can reach5 ft.

Bull Shark Stout-bodied with short,broad, rounded snout. Youngcommon inshore; larger fish morecommon in Gulf, Toteratesa wide rangeof salinityand can be found up rivers into nearly fresh water. Will follow springtarpon runs into Gulf passes. Can reach 11 ft.

Lemon Shark Yellow-gray sharkwith 2 dorsalfins of about equalsize positionedrelatively far back on body. Foundin both bay and Gulf waters. Oftencaught near ledgesor wrecks.

J Nurse Shark Rusty-brown or yellow-brown.Fleshy barbel at the front edge of each nostril. Small mouth. Dorsalfins nearlyequal in size. Commonin both bay and Gulf waters. One of a few sharksthat regularlylies motionlesson the bottom. Will hide under rock ledgesand wrecks. Sluggishfighter when hooked. Can reach 14 ft, Sharks Note: Silky, Dusky, Brown and 'lg Tiger Sharks have a thin, distinctive ridge of raised skin between the two dorsal fins !.

Smooth feeling skin

Silky

Dorsal fin starts

Diagonal "tiger stripes" Brown

Broad, blunt snout

Bonneth Sad Sharks ~~ Note: Jet black tips on dorsal and pectoralfins !.

No black on anal fin Blacktlp

Blacktip Spinner on anal fin Distinctive black mustache on tip of snout

acknose ~ Blackon some fintips

Short, broad snout f

Bull Dorsal fins almost the same size

Dorsal fins almost the same size

Lemon

Fleshy barbel near each corner of mouth Schooling Baitfishes

Severalspecies of small,densely-schooling fish are commonly referred to as "baitfish.'Because of similaritiesintheir behavior, habitat and methods of capture,they are treated here as a group. They are not all closelyrelated, however,

Biology/Habitat:Found in bothbay and Gulf waters over seagrass beds and around pilings and piers.Sardines, menhaden and herring have gillrakers which allow them to filter plankton from the water.Baitfishes represent a critical link in themarine food chain between microscopic organisms and predators.

FishingNotes: Some can be caught on very small hooks, but all are mare commonly taken with cast nets far use as live bait.

ScaledSardine shiner, razor belly, white bait, greenback, pilchard! Tan to greenishback, silvery-whitesides. Single dorsal fin located at mid-body.Deeply forked tail fin. Deepbelly comparedta Spanish sardine. Popular bait. Can be chummed into cast net range. Maxirnurn size 8 inches.

SpanishSardine Back bluish gray, sometimes greenish. Sides silvery to brassy.Siender body; depthequal to headlength. Single dorsal fin locatedat mid-body.Deeply forked tail. Maximum size f0 inches,

Menhaden shad, pogy, mossbunker, bunker! Greenish io bluish back with silvery sides. Singledark shoulder spot. Considered good bait alive or dead.During colonial times was called candlefish; dried fish are so oily they can be ignited at oneend and will burn like a candle.Mostly undersix inchesbut can reach nearly 2 Ibs,

ThreadfinHerring thread herring, threadfin, greenback, shiner, white bait! Bluishor greenish back,silvery sides. Dark spot behind gil! cover. Biack dots along top ofback toward tail. A distinctive"thread" trails along the backfrom the rearof thedorsal fin. Canreach 10 inches.

BayAnchovy Shorl,rounded fish with underslung mouth. Relatively large eyes. Narrow silvery stripealong sides. Dorsalfin far backon body, Canreach 4 inches.

AtlanticBumper hatchet shiner! Smalldisc-shaped fish with pearly-white sides and golden fins, Conspicuousblack saddle at baseof tail. Notexclusively a planktonfeeder; will eat small live fish. Can reach 6 inches. Schooling Baitfishes

Threadfin Herring Cobia ling, lemnoffsS, crab eater, bonito Description: Wide head with protrudinglower law !. Dark horizontalband, wider than eye, extends from snout to base of tail fin !. Spinesin frontpart of dorsalfin are all separated!. Brownish color. Largefish; commonly 10-40 Ibs,but can weigh over 100 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Found inbay and open Gulf waters. More common inbay waters during warmer months.Often found near channel markers, buoys and other structures. Will also cruise in 2-3feet ofwater, following large rays, manatees orturtles. Out in Gulf, usually found near the surface aroundwrecks, reefs, and buoys. Eats fish but bulk of diet is shrimp and crabs. Sexually mature at 2-3years -3 feetin length!.Lives 10-15 years,

FishingNotes: Will take almost any live, dead or artificial bait, but live fish like pinfish and squirrel fishare probably best. A regulatedspecies. Excellent eating when smail; large specimens can have tough meat.

Remora

sharksucker Description: Mostdistinctive fea- tureis suctiondisk on topof head !. A longslender fish with hori- zontalbrown and tan stripes !. Dueto bodyshape and horizontal stripes,this fish can be confused withjuvenile cobia. Commonly about 1 lb, but can reachseveral lbs. Known to reach 3 1/2 ft in length. Biology/Habitat:Found inbays and Gulf waters. Uses suction disk to attach itself to larger animals-particularlysharks, but also sea turtles, any larger fish, and even divers. Does not harm the animalit attaches to;is simply catching a free ride to feed on "table scraps" when the larger animal is eating.Can be seen free swimming. FishingNotes: Opportunistic feeders that will take just about any bait. Although seldom eaten, theyare good table fare if youcatch one large enough tobe worlh cleaning, Gray Mangrove! Snapper black snapper,mango Description: Obliquestripe througheye is usuallyapparent t!, Back and upperscales typically dark gray to gray-green. Lowersides and belly typicallygrayish with a reddishtinge. Body colorationand shadingvary greatlyfrom almost black to almost white on the sides, The most commoninshore snapper. Sometimesconfused with white grunt or red snapper. Commonlyweighs 1 Ib or less, but can be 16 Ibs in offshor waters. Biology/Habitat: Juvenilesusually found inshorenear rock outcrappings,pilings, docks, mangroves or anywherethey can find structure. Largerfish occur near reefs and structuresin offshorewaters up to 300 ft deep. Attainssexual maturity at about 9 inches approxirna'lely3 yearsold!. Fishing Notes: Extremelywary fish: small hookand light leadermay be requiredto produce strikes. Live baits are best. Unhookcarefully: will snap at fingersmoving near i'lsface, and teeth are needlesharp. A regulatedspecies. Edibilityis excellent.

Mutton Snapper muttonfish,mutton Description: Pale greenishto pink- ish in color. Horizontalblue stripes on side of head beloweye. Small but distinctivedark spot on mid upper-back t!. Anal fin distinctly pointed!. Usuallyunder 10 Ibs, can reach 25 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Bottomfish found on Gulf reefs and wrecks. Rarely occurs inshorealong southwestFlorida coast. Morecommon farlher south. Spawningoccurs in July and August, FishingNotes: Will take live ar dead baits,including shrimp, squid and just about any smallfish. A regulatedspecies. A prizedcatch: edibility excellent. Yellowtai1 Snapper yellowtail,flag largespecimens! Description: Trademarkyellow stripeextends from snout to tailfin !. Lightblue to tan on back, white on belly, Yellowspots above,narrow yellowhorizontal stripes below, Deeplyforked bright yellow tail !. Usuallyunder 2 Ibs,uncommon above 5 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Foundnear Gulf reefsand wrecks, usualiy at depthsof 50 feetor more.Primarily a tropicalspecies, more common farlhersouth. Oflen found in schoolsof similarsized fish. Inhabitsmid-water; unlike most other snappers,is not primarilya bottomfeeder. FishingNotes: Chumcontinuously to bringfish up whereit canbe caughtjust underthe surface. Willalso take baits fished on or near bottom. A waryfish: light tackle and small hook may be requiredto producestrikes. A regulatedspecies. Regarded as a delicacy.

Vermillion Snapper beeliner,redeye Description:Streamlined body, Largered eye. Almostuniformly pink in color: darkeron back, lighter towardbelly. Usuallyaround 1 Ib, can exceed 6 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Deepwater Gulf fish associated with hard bottom and reefs in greaterthan 70 ft of water. Occursand feeds in the watercolumn up offthe bottom.Active at night,but also feeds during the day. Spawnsfrom April throughSeptember. FishingNotes: Sestcaught on small hooks baited with shrimp, squid or cut baitfished near bottom.A regulatedspecies. Edibility very good. Lane Snapper Description: Brightlycolored; orange and yellow horizontalstripes. Large blackspot on mid-backabove lateral line I!. Rearedge of tail fin black !. Specimensto several inchesin lengthoften confusedwith pinfishand other baitfish. One of the smallestsnappers at maturity: commonlyto 1 Ib,can reach5 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Adultsare primarily bottomfish found around Gulf reefs and wrecks. Juveniles less than about 6 inches!are widely distributedin baysand inland waters. Feeds on a varietyof marineanimals. FishingNotes: Amongthe easiestsnappers to catch;will hit a varietyof cut baitsfished near bottom.A regulatedspecies. Edibility excellent.

Hogfish hogsnapper Description: Deep-bodiedfish. Color highly variable,but usually reddish-orange.Large canine teeth projectoutward !. First 3 spines of dorsalfin efongatedto form distinctive "roostercomb" !. Juve- nilesusually lighter with pink, gray and white mottlingalong sides. Large malesdevelop long, piglike snoutand pronounced forehead with dark "mask." An unusuallylarge member of thewrasse family. Generallyunder 3 lbs, can reach25 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Gulf bottomfish associatedwith reefsand wrecks. Morecommon farther south. Changessex with age: begins reproductive life as fernale;later changes to male. Feedson a wide varietyof slow-movinganimals such as mollusks,crabs and sea urchins. FishingNotes: Caught on shrimp and other crustaceans fished onbottom. Check regulations. Firm white meat;edibility excellent. Red Grouper Description: Likeall groupershas protrudinglower jaw !. A stocky "broad-shouldered" fish with mottled pink-orangishblotches and orange mouthlining. Frontportion of dorsal fin'stop edgeis smooth! as op- posedto jagged.Usually under 10 Ibs, but can reach 50 lbs. Biology/Habitat: Foundin reef and hard bottom areas of the Gulf. Occasionallyfound in passes amd around bridge pilings. Estuarine habitat isthought tobe vitally imporlantfor several grouper species; younger juveniles are known to occurin seagrass beds. Favoriteprey include shrimp, crabs, fish, octopus and squid, which are ambushed from a hiding placeand swallowed whole. Like other groupers, changes sex during its life. Female red grouper beginchanging to malesat 18to 26inches in length-10 yearsald!. FishingNotes: Caughton justabout any kind of baitfished on the bottom.Sometimes will hit a lurefished near its hiding place. Larger fish require heavy tackle; a hookedfish will immediately try to diveback into its lair. A regulatedspecies. Edibility excellent; firm mild flesh.

Gag Grouper blackgrouper, grass grouper Description:Brownish to graywith varyingdarker patches that often looklike lip-prints. Like most groupers, can changecolor patternfor camouflage.Coloration of landed fishcan change quickly. Often confusedwith the relativelyuncommon blackgrouper which has small yellow or gold spots on its lowersides. Commonlyunder 10 Ibs, but can reach up to 70 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Adults dependent onreef or hardbottom habitat in Gulfwaters out to depthsof 250ft; occasionallyinhabit inshore reefs. Adults migrate fram deeper wa'Ier in summerto shallow, near-coastalwaters in winter.Spawns in Gulfduring winter Jan.-Mar.!.Small juveniles common in shallowwater seagrass beds hence nickname grass grouper}. Reaches sexual maturity at age5-6 yearsand size 27-30 inches. Like other groupers, changes sex femaleto male!as it grows,with transitionusually occurring at age10-11 years. Preysprimarily on fishes and crabs. Fishing Notes: Preferslive naturalbaits, but can be takenon dead baits and artificiallures, Will swim away from structureto take bait even to the surface,but headsfor coverwhen hooked. A regulatedspecies. Edibilityexcellent. Scamp broomtailgrouper large specimens! Description: Similarto and often confused with the much more common gag grouper. Maindifference is in color pattern. Scamphas numerous small dark freckles while gaghas larger markings. Large specimensdevelop extended, rag- ged-lookingrays an Ihe tail fin, hencethe nicknamebroomtail grouper. Commonly 5-10 Ibs, can exceed 20 lbs. Biology/Habitat:A bottom fish of theopen Gulf, more common in waterdepths over 100 ft. Small specimensoccasionally caught in wateras shallowas 40-50ft, Occursaround reefs and wrecks withprominent vertical relief. Spawns in Apriland May. Known ta liveas long as 20 years. FishingNotes: Caught by fishingon bottominrelatively deep water, Will take live and deadbaits. A regulatedspecies. Considered bymany to bethe mast desirable of thegroupers to eat.

Jewfish Description: Yellow-greenblotches or bandswith dark freckles blackish brownspots! distinguishsmaller individualsof this speciesfrom other groupers. Streamlinedsilhouette becomesfootball-shaped as fish ages. Older fish have pale brown blotches or bands. Head and fins are covered with distinct freckles. Less distinct freckles cover the body.A roundedtail ! distinguishesthejewfish from other grouper species, Largest of the groupers. Weighsup to 700 Ibs; weightsover 100 Ibs common. Biology/Habitat:Like other groupers, inhabits reef or hardbottom with crevices and holes to hide in. Itslarge size limits the number of such spots to wrecksand large ledges in theGulf. Not a deep waterspecies; seldom found in waterdeeper than 100-150 feet. Nearshore, can be foundaround artificialreefs, bridge pilings, fishing piers and deep channels. Eats fish and crustaceans. Long lived;largest specimens are thought to be 30-50years old. FishingNotes: Caughton live or dead baits fished an or near the bottom. Sluggish feeder comparedto other groupers. Seldomhooked on artificiallures, Will not travel far from coverto take bait.Will try to diveinto its lair when hooked. A protectedspecies; all harvest prohibited. Black Sea Bass sea bass,black will Description: Darkcolored fish- blackto duskybrown, belly only slightlylighter than sides. Dorsalfin markedwith white spots and bands !. Viewedfram the side, appears to bemottled with pale dots. Larger fishhave a pronouncedhump abave the head ! and developfilaments trailingfram the tail fin !. Com- monly 1 Ib or less, maximumin Gulf 3-4 Ibs, Biology/Habitat:Dependent upon rocks or reefsin bayand Gulf waters for holesor crevicesin whichto hide.A closerelative of the groupers and shares much of the same habitat. Thought to bea longlived, slow growing fish reaching 5 inches its first year and 12 inches by age 5. Changes sexas it grows:reaches reproductive stage as a fernale;eventually develops into a male. FishingNotes: Larger fish usually caught in Gulfwaters, Inshore, artificial reefs also produce species.blacksea Edibilitybass. Aggressive excellent;veryfeeder mild,that white,will take firmlivemeat. or dead bait and strike Tripletaillures. A regulated

buoyfish Description:Appears to havethree tails because the roundeddorsal and anal fins extend far back on the body!. Colorvaries fram quite dark to mottledyellowish-brown, de- pendingupon surroundings. Most commonly1-10 Ibs but can exceed 30 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Drawn to cover suchas floatingdebris, navigation buoys, crab trap floats, channel markers, and even pier and bridgepilings. Tends to getright next ta cover,nosing against floats hencethe name buoy fish! andpilings as it waitsin ambush.Often floats near the surface on its side, and can easily be mistakenfor a clumpof algaeor a floatingleaf. Can attain age of 7-10years; thought to reach sexualmaturity by the end of the first year, FishingNotes: Generally caught in baysand rivers in summermonths and near-shore Gulf waters inwinter months. Most are caught on live shrimp or smalllive fish worked close to buoysand channelmarkers. Slow moving lures also work. Excellent eating fish; don't be discouraged bythe toughskin and heavy scales. Sand Perch squirrelfish

Description: Smallfish with distinctive coloration. Tan background with vertical brown bars on sides and bright bluehorizontal lines on snout,cheeks, and sides. Dorsalfin has orangehorizontal stripes. Nick- name squirretfishcauses confusion; true squirrelfishes are small, pre- dominantlyred, nocturnalspecies inhabitingtropical reefs seldomfound in our area!, Usuallyless than 1 lb. Biology/Habitat:Bottom fish usuallyfound near rocks,reefs, and jetties, but also on sand bottom. Foundin Gulfwaters more often than in bays. Relativeof the seabassesand groupers. An individualcan functionas either maleor female both spermand eggscan be producedsimulta- neouslyin a maturefish. Growsslowly: attains size of only 10-11inches after 6 years. FishingNotes: Aggressivefeeder which will hit bottom-fishedlures or naturalbaits. Often used as bait for other largerfish, Handlewith care due to sharpjagged edge on gill covers. Edibilityis good; becauseof small size,is not often considereda foodfish.

Soapfish Description:Long, sloping nose. Brownish-greenwith lighterspots. Tail fin rounded. Very soft to the touch. Calledsoapfish because an anglercan work up a iatherby rub- binghands together after handling soapfishbody slime. Generally under 10 inchesin length. Biology/Habitat:Gulf reef fish most commonin 30 to 100 feet of water. Body mucouscontains substance toxic to other fishes. FishingNotes: Usuallycaught byanglers targeting snapper or sheepshead.Other fish are repelledby soapfishbody slime: rinsehands thoroughly after handlingor soapfishmight be the last catch of the day. Notconsidered a foodfish. King Mackerel kingfish,king Description:Large, torpedo- shapedbody, Pointedjaw with closely-setrazor-sharp teeth. Gray back;light silver sides and belly. Goldspots on lower sides of small king mackerelcause misidentifica- tionas Spanishmackerel; spots fadeas fishgrows. Can be distinguishedfrom Spanish mackerel by a lateralline which drops abruptly !. Commonlyto 10 Ibs, often to 40Ibs, can exceed 100 Ibs, Biology/Habitat:Migratory, schooling fish of the open Gulf, usually in20-60 ft of water; seldom foundinbay waters, Small king mackerel oftenschool with similar-sized Spanish mackerel. Very largeindividuals areusually solitary. Migrates northward alongsouthwest Florida coast inspring; southwardinfall, Grows to18-24 inches infirst year! Preys primarily onschooling baitfish. FishingNotes: Schools often indicated bybaitfish near bottom, orby diving sea birds. Fish at variousdepths tofind school. Most often taken by trolling. Will strike a varietyofspoons, jigsand plugsas well as live bail. Wire or heavy monofilament leaderrecommended. A regulated species. Diesquickly: follow guidelines forreleasing. Edibility good.

Spanish Mackerel Description: Longthin fish with razor-sharpteeth. Upperbody blue- grey,sides and belly silver-white. Goldspots on upperbody and sides,but not on belly. A smaller relativeof kingmackerel; can be distinguishedfrom small king mack- erelby differencein lateralline !. Usuallyunder 3 Ibs;can reach 14 lbs. Biology/Habitat;Migratory fishof open Gulf and bay waters often found inlarge schools that may travelmany miles in a day.Schools may number thousands offish, Generally, schools migrate northwardalong the coast of southwest Florida in spring,then return southward in fall. Small numbersare present year-round. Feeds on small schooling baitfish. Often found near rocky areas andartificial reefs which attract baitfish. Fast growing fish that can reach 12-15 inches in itsfirst year.Can live to a maxirnurnage of 5-8years. FishingNotes: Schools feed aggressively atvarying depths. Often located by flocks of sea birds feedingatthe surface. Readily takes live baits, but most are caught bytrolling orcasting spoons or otherlures. Teeth are sharp: use wire or heavy monofilament leaders. A regulatedspecies. A desirablefood fish, but spoils quickly if noticed down immediately. Little Tunny

bonito, false albacore Description: Streamlined,football- shapedbody. Blueto greenishback withsilver belly. Intricatepattern of wavylines along mid to upperback f!. Severaldark spots below shor! pectoralfins !. Smallfinlets be- hinddorsal and anal fins !. Slotin top of back allowsdorsal fin to re- cessand streamline for speed. Generally5 to 10 Ibs, can exceed25 Ibs, Biology/Habitat:Usually found from surface tobottom tnopen water deeper than 20 ft. Oneof lhe mostabundant tunas; sometimes found in massive schools. Fast growing, short-lived migratory schoolingfish movesnorthward inspring, southward infall!. Feeds primarily onsmall fish, crustaceans,and squid. FishingNotes: Diving birds may indicate presence ofa feedingschool. Powerful fighter. Often takenby trolling or castingspoons or jigs, Also taken by floating baits near surface. When one is caught,others are usually nearby. Dark red meat edible when immediately bledand iced.

Atlantic Bonito Description:Blue to grayback, silver sidesand belly. Distinctpattern of obliquedark stripes on upper back !. Sometimesconfused with littletunny. Generallyunder 2 Ibs, but can reach over 20 lbs. Biology/Habitat:A migratoryfish of the open Gulf often found with bluefish, little tunny,Spanish mackerel and king mackerelin schoolsof similar-sizedfish. Much more common onthe east coast. Grows rapidly, reaching more than 1 ftin lengththe first year. Spawns May - July.Primarily eats fish but also preys upon squid and shrimp. FishingNotes: Best caught by trolling small jigs or spoons around the edge of schools visible at thesurface. Meat >s dark and oily. Edibilitygood if bledand iced immediately. Barracuda

cuda

Description: Cigar-shapedbody. Longjaws with rows of closelyset, razor-sharpteeth. Dorsalfins far apart. White belly shadestoward dark gray or black alongthe back. Randompattern of black spots on rear half of body is differentfor each fish. Usuallyunder 15 Ibs; often to 30 Ibs, can exceed 60 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Adults almost always found in the Gulf,usually around high profile wrecks and reefs.Young barracuda sometimes found inshore near Gulf passes. At oneyear of age,is slightly under1 ft in length;attains 30 inchesafter 5 years.Can live as longas 14years. Aggressive predator;feeds on other fish. FishingNotes: A livebait in distresswill often provoke a barracudahit, as wil!artificial lures movingvery quickly at or nearthe surface.A wireleader is necessaryto preventcut-off. Use extremecaution when unhooking since sharp teeth can quickly sever a finger.Smaller barracuda considerededible. Larger fish from tropical reef areas can carry ciguatoxic poison harmful to humans;consumption of larger barracudafrom these areasshould be avoided.

Dolphin mahi-mahi,dorado, bull dolphin largemales!, cow dolphin largefemales!, chicken dolphin schooling! Description: Beautifullyirridescent blue, greenand yellowsides; colors fade rapidlyafter death. Large malesdevelop high, bluntforehead. Females have smaller head that is more roundedin front. Long,continuousdorsal fin !. Commonlyunder 10 Ibs, can reach 85 lbs. Biology/Habitat:Usually found at least15 miles offshore in schoolsof similarsized fish. Larger adultsoften found alone or in pairs. Feedson marinelife associated with floating mals of sea- weeds;also pursues other fishes, Fast-growing, short-lived fish; may not live much longer than 5 years, FishingNotes: Oftencongregates around "weed lines" and mats of debris.Caught at or nearthe surfaceby trollinglures; will also strike baits. Sometimes a schoolwill follow a hookedfish to the boat. Manyanglers leave a hookedfish in thewater to keepthe others nearby. A regulated species. Edibilityexcellent. INDEX OF COMMON NAMES

A,J. 19 Flag 32 Mullet 12 Silverperch Amberjack 19 Flannelmouth Mutton 31 Silvertrout 4 2 Angelfish 14 grunt 8 Muttonsnapper 31 Skate 21 Atlanticbonito 39 Flatfish 12 Muttonfish 31 Skipjack 17 Atlanticbumper 283 Flounder 12 Needlefish 10 Snakefish 14 Atlanticcroaker Fluke 12 Nurseshark 25 Snapper 201 Barracuda 40 Flyingfish 10 Oldlinesides Snook Bat 22 Gafftopsaii Orangefilefish 15 Soapfish 37, 1 Batray 22 caffish 11 Oystercracker 13 Southernpuffer 16 Bayanchovy 28 Gaggrouper 34 Oystertoad 13 Southernsting- Beeiiner 32 Grassgrouper 34 Permit 18 ray Blackdrum 5 Graysnapper 31,8 Pigfish 7 Spadefish Blackgrouper 34 Graytriggerfish 15 Pilchard 28 Spanish Blackmullet 12 Greateramber- Pmfish 7 mackerel 38 Blacksea bass 36 jack 19 Pogy 28 Spanishsardine 28 Blacksnapper 31 Greenback 28 Pompano 18 Speck Blackwill 36 G uitarfish 23 Poorman' s Speckledtrout 2 2 Blacknoseshark 25 Gulfflounder 12 tarpon 9 Spinnershark 25 Blacktipshark 25 Gulfsnapper 8 Porcupinefish 16 Spinypuffer 166 Blowtoad 16 Hammerhead Porgy 6 Spottailbream Blowfish 16 shark 25 Razorbelly 28 Spoffailpintish 6 Blue 20 Hardhead 3, 11 Red 1 Spottedeagle Bluerunner 20 Hardtail 20 Reddrum 1 ray 22 Bluefish 20 Hatchetshiner 28 Redgrouper 34 Spottedseatro ut 2 Bonito 39, 30 Hogsnapper 33 Redeye 32 Squirreifish 37 Bonnethead Hogfssh 33 Redfish 1 Stripedmojarra 4 shark 25 Jack 19 Remora 30 Stnpedmullel 12 Boxfish 17 Jackcrevalle 19 Robalo 1 Sugartrou'I Broomtailgrouper 35 Jewfish 35 Sabalo 9 Tarpon 49 9 Brownshark 24 Joltheadporgy 6 8 Sailcat 11 Ten-pounder Bulldolphin 40 KeyWest grunt Sailorschoice 7 Threadherring 28 Bullshark 25 King 38 Sandbream 4 Threadfin 28 Bunker 28 Kingrnackere! 38 Sanddiver 14 Threadfin Buoyfish 36 Kingfish 3, 38 Sandperch 37, 4 herring 28 Burrfish 161 Ladylish 9 Sandseatrout 2 Tigershark 24 Channelbass Lanesnapper 33 Sawfish 23 Toadfish 13 Chickendolphin 40 Leatherjacket 17 Scaledsardine 28 Tomtategrunt 8 Chopper 20 Lemonshark 25 Scamp 35 Triggerlish 15 Cobia 305 Lemonfish 30 Schoolingbait. Tripletail 362 Convictfish Ling 30 fishes 28-29 Trout Cowdolphin 40 Lisa 12 Seabass 36 Vermillion Cownosed ray 22 Littletunny 39 Seacatfish 11 snapper 32 Cowlish 17 Lizardfish 14 Se robin 13 Whitebait Crabeater 30 Mahi-maiii 40 Shad 28 Whitegrunt 288 3 Croaker 3,4 Mango 31 Shads 24-27 Whiting Cuda 40 Mangrove Sharksucker 30 Yellowjack 19 Dolphin 40 snapper 31 Shecpshead 5 Yeilowtail 17,32 Dorado 40 Menhaden 28 Shiner 28 Yellowtail Drum 5 Mossbunker 28 Silkyshark 24 snapper 32 Duskyshark 24 Mother-in-law Silvergrunt 8 Zebrafish 5 Falsealbacore 39 fish 13 Silverking 9 Fingermul et 12 Mudcat 11 Silvermullet 12 PREVENTINGFISHING INJURIES

Fishingis far from beinga dangeroussport, but accidentscan happen. Fishermencan encountera numberof fishesand other marine animals that can cause painful injuries. Often, simple first aid will be sufficient,but moreserious injuries may requireprofessional medical attention.

Hooksand Barbs: A commonangling injury results from getting snagged on a hook.In some cases,the hookcan easily be backedout of theskin and first aid can consist of nothingmore than applyingan antiseptic. However,for a deeplyimbedded hook, medicalassistance for removalas well as treatmentis commonlyrequired.

Fins andGill Covers: Severalspecies of fishdescribed in thisbook have sharply pointed fins. Thesefins, some of which containvenom, can causepainful injuries. Gilt covers,also, are some- tirnessharp and can cause cuts if theangler is careless.Handle fish with a wetglove or towel. Puncture wounds and cuts should be cleaned and medicated.

Teeth: Sharks,barracuda, and other predatoryfish can causeserious injuries with their razor- sharpteeth. In addition,many types of harmless-lookingfish can also inflicta painfulbite.

Jellyfish; Stingingjellyfish are often encountered while wade-fishing. If stung,flush and then -aak the injury,using hot water if possible,until the pain subsides.

Stingrays: Thebony spine at thebase of a stingray'stail candeliver a slashingwound or puncturethat is madeworse by the injectionof venom.If woundedby a stingray,seek medical help immediately!The pain can be reducedby soakingin hotwater or byapplying a heatpack soldin campingequipment stores! directly to thewound. Medical treatment can include an x-rayta seeif piecesof the spine are still imbedded,a tetanusvaccine, and antibiotics.

WARNING:Sunshine can be hazardousto yourhealth!

Skincancer and cataract cases are increasing rapidly in Florida,and damage to the skin and eyes from solar radiationis the prime cause. To minimizethe effects of sun exposurewhile fishing:

~ Keep as much of the body coveredas possibleand alwayswear a hat. ~ Wear sunscreen. Use an adequateprotection strength. ~ Avoid fishing during the middleof the day when possible. ~ Wearsunglasses. Polarized sunglasses are recommended.Sunglasses not only helpprotect the eyes,they also reduce glare and make it easierto seesubmerged objects especially bay bottom and fish. RELEASINGHOOKED AND ENTANGLED SEABIRDS

Mostanglers would be surprised to learnthat a majorcause of deathfor Florida seabirds is en- tanglementin monofilament fishing line. Birds entangled infishing line are often condemned to deathby slow starvation when the line gets snagged inthe mangroves, Inaddition, fish hooks causepainful injuries that result in infection and death. Many of these deaths and injuries could be preventedif anglerswould be a little morecareful. For instance:

~ ALWAYSdispose offishing line properly, Discarding lineover the side of a boator pier, or even just leavingit on thedock, creates a deadlysnare for seabirds. ~Don't feed seabirds. Feeding birds, especially tossing fish remains tothem, encourages birds to stayclose to anglers and greatly increases thelikelihood that the birds wi!l get hooked or entangled. ~Avoid casting when seabirds are present. Some birds will actually try to snatch your bait in mid- air. If successful,they may be firmly hooked to yourline. ~If youlose tackle and line in the mangroves from casts that go too far, RETRIEVE it. Many pelicans,cormorants and wading birds become fatally entangled in monofilament leftwhere these birdsroutinely perch and roost.

If you hook or encounter a hooked or snared bird:

1. DON'TCUT THE LINE! If you simply cut the line, the bird will fly away with the line trailing behind.It won'ttake long for the birdto becomefatally snared. 2, Carefullycapture the bird, preferably ina handnet or large hoop net. Donot lift or pullthe bird bythe hooked line. Get someone tohelp you. It isvirtually impossible forone person tocontrol a wildbird while removing a hookor fishingline, 3. USECAUTION! Unless in a weakenedcondition, a snared bird will try to defenditself with its bill. It will instinctivelyaim for youreyes. 4. Graspand maintain a gripon the bird's bill before removing it from the net. 5. Placea towelor othercloth over the bird'seyes to helpcalm it. 6, Carefullyremove all the line wrapped around the bird; even small pieces can cut off circulation andresult in theloss of legsor wings.If nohooks are caught in thebird, carefully release it, 7. If a hookisembedded inthe bird, gently push it throughuntil the barb is exposed. Clip the barb offand back the hook out. Coverthe barb with a clothbefore clipping it;the barb will fly off and could hit you in the eye.! Don'tleave the barb in the bird! 8. If the birddoesn't seem especially strong and healthy, it shouldbe taken to a veterinarianor otherspecialist for treatment, See inside back cover for listing of telephone numbers for treatmentfacilities.! TO LEARN MORE, VISIT .

Clearwater Marine Science Center Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center 249Windward Passage - Clearwater,FL 10941Burnt Store Road- PuntaGorda, FL Phone: 813-447-0980 Phone: 813-575-4800 Open: M-F 9-5; Sat. 9-4; Sun. 11-4 Open:School year, Mon.- Sat., 8-3. Summer Admission;$3.50 Adults; $2,00 ages 3-11; hours,Mon. - Fri., 8-12. TourGroup Rate of $1.25per person for Admission:Donations accepted groupsof 10 or more mustbe pre-arranged! MajorAttractions: Saltwater aquarium fea- MajorAttractions: Features 'Sunset Sam," tures estuarine life. Three miles of nature an injureddolphin, Visitors can see injured trailsthrough coastal marsh and forest habi- turtlesbeing treated. Feedings occur every tats. Guided trail walk 3 times each week. two hours. Exhibits describe local marine life. DingDarling National Wffdlife Refuge The Pier Aquarium 1 WildlifeDrive - Sanibel,FL 8002nd Avenue NE - St.Petersburg, FL Phone: 813-472-1100 Phone: 81 3-895-7437 Open:Wildlife drive open every day except Open: Mon,-Sat.,10-8; Tues. 1-8; Sun. 12-6 Fri.,sunrise to sundown.Visitor Center open Admission: Free 9-4,May-Octclosed Fri. & Sun.Nov,-Apr. MajorAttractions: Features several tanks VisitorCenter open 9-5, closedFri. rangingin sizefrom 450-900 gallons housing Admission:Wildlife drive $4.00 per car; visi- marinegamefish from the Tampa Bay area, tor center free Californiasharks, and coral reef tropical fish. Major Attractions:Premier location for view- ingand photographing wading birds in their South Florida Museum and Planetarium natural habitat. Visitor Center has orientation 201 10th StreetWest - Bradenton,FL video and exhibits. Phone: 813-746-4132 Open:Tues.-Sat. 10-5; Sun. 12-6;Closed M Sanibel-CaptivaConservation Foundation Admission: $5 Adults;$2,50 5-12; 1-5 free 3333 Sanibel-CaptivaRoad - Sanibei,FL MajorAttractions: Features "Snooty' the Phone: 81 3-472-2329 manatee.Exhibit called Chartinga Course Open:9-4 Dec.-May, Jan-Nov. 9-3 ThroughHistory has navigation charts for the Admission:$2 Adults;under 12 free TampaBay area from 1722 to 1910, MajorAttractions: Exhibits include a detailed explanationof barrierislands. Featuresrna- MoteMarine Laboratory rine "touch tank" and 4 miles of nature trails. 1600Ken Thompson Parkway - Sarasota,FL Phone: 813-388-2451 OstegoBay Foundation Open: Sun,-Sat,10-5 71 8 Fisherman's Wharf Admission:$6 Adults; $4 students4-17; Fort MyersBeach, FL under 4 free Phone: 813-765-8101 MajorAttractions: Aquarium features a Open:Sat. 10-4; Sun. 1-4; Closed Aug. 135,000gallon shark tank. A 1,000-gallon Admission:Donations accepted 'touch tank' allows visitors to handle various MajorAttractions; Touch tank and exhibits marine animals from the local area. explainlocal marine environment. Seagrass bedexhibit. Guided tours for groups by appt. FOR ASSISTANCE, CONTACT...

Conservation Enforcement National Estuarine Research Reserves: and Emergency Assistance RookeryBay - 813-775-8845

Sheriffs' Offices: Departmentof Environmental Protection: 911 for Emergencies Boca Ciegaand TerraCeia Aquatic PinellasCounty - 813-587-6200 Preserves - 813-744-6168 HillsboroughCounty - 813-272-5960 SouthwestFlorida Aquatic Preserves ManateeCounty- 813-745-3717 813-283-2424 or 813-283-2929 SarasotaCounty - 813-364-4400 Shellfish Assessment Office - 813-255-0083 CharlotteCounty- 813-743-1222 Lee County- 813-335-2477 West Coast Inland Navigation District: CollierCounty - 813-774-8428 Venice - 81 3-485-9402

Florida Marine Patrol: Wildlife Rescue Tampa- 813-272-2516 and Rehabilitation Fort Myers- 813-332-6971 to reportfishing violations, harassment of Manatee and Turtle Hotline: manatees,and injuredwildlife! To reportinjured, dead or taggedmanatees 1-800-DIAL-FMP and sea turlles, or harassment of these animals! - 1-800-342-1821 Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission: Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators: to report harassmenlof wildlife,poaching or PinellasCounty, environmentalcrimes! - 1-800-342-8105 HumaneSociety of No. Pinellas 813-797-7722 U.S. Coast Guard: SuncoastSeabird Sanctuary - 813-391-6211 Cortez - 813-794-1261 HillsboroughCounty: Fort MyersBeach - 813-463-5754 Karen Green Wildlife Rehab - 813-737-1436 ManateeCounty: Marine Resouxce Beach Vel Clinic - 813-792-2838 Use Information Wildlife Rescue - 813-753-9620 Wildlife Rescue & Rehab. - 813-778-2385 Florida Sea Grant Marine Extension SarasotaCounty: Pelican Man's Bird Sanct. - 81 3-388-4444 Programs: PinellasCounty - 813-582-21 00 TLC for Wildlife - 813-924-0273 Hillsborough,Manatee, Sarasota, and CharlotteCounty: AmberLake Wildlife Refuge - 813-475-4585 Collier Counties - 813-722-4524 CharlotteCounty - 813-639-6255 Peace River Wildlife Center - 813-637-3830 Lee County: National Estuary Programs: Southwest Florida Native Wildlife Ark 813-543-4440 TampaBay NationalEstuary Program 813-893-2765 CollierCounty: SarasotaBay NationalEstuary Program ConservancyWildlife Clinic - 813-262-0304 813-361-6133 Fundsfor Developmentof this Publication Provided by:

West CoastInland Navigation District Venice, Florida

Copiesmay be purchasedby contacting: FloridaSea Grant College Program P.O. Box 110409 University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32611-0409 904! 392-2801

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