Atlantic Croaker

Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from Massachusetts south through Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico. One of the most abundant inshore fish on the US East and Gulf coasts. Found in bays, estuaries, tidal rivers, and nearshore surf zones over sandy and muddy bottom. An important recreational and commercial species throughout the Chesapeake Bay region.

Preferred Water Temperature: 58°F–78°F. A very common inshore species that migrates seasonally — arrives in Chesapeake Bay in spring and retreats to offshore wintering areas in fall. Makes a distinctive croaking sound — audible above the water surface in large concentrations.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 4 lbs. World record: 6 lbs from Georgia. Silver with bronze spots arranged in rows on the back. Good eating — sweet, mild white meat. One of the most popular inshore species in the Chesapeake Bay.

Best Lures: Small soft plastic jigs produce consistent results. Berkley Gulp! shrimp work very well. Small swimbaits near bottom.

Best Baits: Blood worms and sandworms are the top Chesapeake Bay baits. Fresh shrimp work consistently throughout the range. Cut squid pieces are effective. Clam pieces produce results. Bottom rigs with small hooks and fresh bait over sandy or muddy bottom are standard.

Western Atlantic Ocean — from Massachusetts south through Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico. One of the most abundant inshore fish on the US East and Gulf coasts. Found in bays, estuaries, tidal rivers, and nearshore surf zones over sandy and muddy bottom. An important recreational and commercial species throughout the Chesapeake Bay region.

58°F–78°F. A very common inshore species that migrates seasonally — arrives in Chesapeake Bay in spring and retreats to offshore wintering areas in fall. Makes a distinctive croaking sound — audible above the water surface in large concentrations.

Best Lures: Small soft plastic jigs produce consistent results. Berkley Gulp! shrimp work very well. Small swimbaits near bottom. Best Baits: Blood worms and sandworms are the top Chesapeake Bay baits. Fresh shrimp work consistently throughout the range. Cut squid pieces are effective. Clam pieces produce results. Bottom rigs with small hooks and fresh bait over sandy or muddy bottom are standard.

Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 4 lbs. World record: 6 lbs from Georgia. Silver with bronze spots arranged in rows on the back. Good eating — sweet, mild white meat. One of the most popular inshore species in the Chesapeake Bay.