Sand Seatrout
White trout
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Scientific Name:
Cynoscion arenarius Saltwater
Inshore
Native
Fish
- Seasons and Regulations
- Licenses/Permits
Description
Has a slender body with pale sand-colored back that fades to a light silver or white belly. Has a pair of prominent canine teeth in the front of the upper jaw. Similar to speckled trout but without the spots and dark back. Has a yellow patch in their mouth like a speckled trout. Can be distinguished from silver seatrout by counting anal fin rays; sand seatrout has 10 to 12 rays, silver seatrout has 8 to 9 rays. Can weigh up to 6 pounds but are generally caught at 1 pound or less and between 8 and 15 inches.
Range and Habitat
Found throughout the Gulf of Mexico, predominantly along the northern Gulf coast. Rare in Atlantic waters but can be found along the southern Florida coast. Found over mud and sand bottom habitats. Common inshore, as close as the surf. Become less common as you go offshore but can be found up in waters up to 200 feet deep.
Behavior
Spawn offshore between the spring and summer. Newly hatched fry are transported inshore by currents and tides. Spend winters inshore in bay and marshes then migrate in early spring offshore. Often found around structure like oyster reefs or oil rigs. Larger adults tend to stay further offshore. Feed on fish, shrimp, and small crabs.