Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from Massachusetts south through Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. The most prized surf fish in Florida — found in the surf zone on sandy beaches, in passes, and over nearshore grass and sand flats. Highly migratory — concentrations move north in summer and south in fall.
Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–82°F. Concentrate in the surf zone along Florida beaches spring through fall. Move through passes and inlets during seasonal migrations. Found feeding on sand fleas in the wave wash on sandy beaches.
Size & Weight: Typically 1–3 lbs and 12–18 inches. Maximum approximately 8 lbs. World record: 8 lbs 4 oz. A deep-bodied, brilliantly silver fish with yellow undersides. The finest-tasting fish in Florida and arguably in the Atlantic Ocean — sweet, firm, rich meat that commands premium restaurant prices.
Best Lures: Small jigs (1/4 oz) in yellow or white are very effective — the "Pompano Jig" is a Florida institution. Small DOA shrimp lures produce well. Small Berkley Gulp! shrimp are outstanding. Light spinning tackle with 10–12 lb line is ideal.
Best Baits: Fresh sand fleas (mole crabs) are the number one bait — Pompano root in the wave wash for them. Fresh shrimp produce consistent results. Canned corn occasionally works. Fresh clams are effective. Fish the wave wash in the surf zone on sandy beaches for best results.
Western Atlantic Ocean — from Massachusetts south through Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. The most prized surf fish in Florida — found in the surf zone on sandy beaches, in passes, and over nearshore grass and sand flats. Highly migratory — concentrations move north in summer and south in fall.
Water Conditions
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68°F–82°F. Concentrate in the surf zone along Florida beaches spring through fall. Move through passes and inlets during seasonal migrations. Found feeding on sand fleas in the wave wash on sandy beaches.
Tackle & Bait
5 of 6
Best Lures:
Small jigs (1/4 oz) in yellow or white are very effective — the "Pompano Jig" is a Florida institution. Small DOA shrimp lures produce well. Small Berkley Gulp! shrimp are outstanding. Light spinning tackle with 10–12 lb line is ideal.
Best Baits:
Fresh sand fleas (mole crabs) are the number one bait — Pompano root in the wave wash for them. Fresh shrimp produce consistent results. Canned corn occasionally works. Fresh clams are effective. Fish the wave wash in the surf zone on sandy beaches for best results.
Size & Sport
6 of 6
Typically 1–3 lbs and 12–18 inches. Maximum approximately 8 lbs. World record: 8 lbs 4 oz. A deep-bodied, brilliantly silver fish with yellow undersides. The finest-tasting fish in Florida and arguably in the Atlantic Ocean — sweet, firm, rich meat that commands premium restaurant prices.