Sand Seatrout

Oceans & Range: Gulf of Mexico and adjacent Western Atlantic — from southern Florida west through Texas and south to Mexico. A primarily Gulf of Mexico species found in shallow coastal bays, estuaries, and passes. Common throughout the northern Gulf Coast from Florida to Texas.

Preferred Water Temperature: 65°F–82°F. A warm-water Gulf species that concentrates in shallow bay systems and coastal passes in spring and fall. Moves to deeper offshore Gulf waters in winter when bay temperatures drop.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–15 inches. Rarely exceeds 4 lbs. World record: 6 lbs 15 oz. Often caught incidentally while targeting Spotted Seatrout — a common bycatch species throughout its range.

Best Lures: Small soft plastics on light jig heads are very effective. Small spinners produce in sandy bottom areas. Small plugs work in passes and cuts. Light tackle — 8–12 lb test — is appropriate for this lighter-bodied species.

Best Baits: Live shrimp are the top bait by a wide margin. Small live minnows produce consistent action. Dead shrimp on a bottom rig catch fish. Small cut mullet works in passes. Sand fleas produce near beach areas.

Gulf of Mexico and adjacent Western Atlantic — from southern Florida west through Texas and south to Mexico. A primarily Gulf of Mexico species found in shallow coastal bays, estuaries, and passes. Common throughout the northern Gulf Coast from Florida to Texas.

65°F–82°F. A warm-water Gulf species that concentrates in shallow bay systems and coastal passes in spring and fall. Moves to deeper offshore Gulf waters in winter when bay temperatures drop.

Best Lures: Small soft plastics on light jig heads are very effective. Small spinners produce in sandy bottom areas. Small plugs work in passes and cuts. Light tackle — 8–12 lb test — is appropriate for this lighter-bodied species. Best Baits: Live shrimp are the top bait by a wide margin. Small live minnows produce consistent action. Dead shrimp on a bottom rig catch fish. Small cut mullet works in passes. Sand fleas produce near beach areas.

Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–15 inches. Rarely exceeds 4 lbs. World record: 6 lbs 15 oz. Often caught incidentally while targeting Spotted Seatrout — a common bycatch species throughout its range.