Vermilion Snapper

Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from North Carolina south through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean to Brazil. A mid-water and bottom snapper found over hard bottom, reefs, and ledges in 60–300 feet. Often found in the same areas as Red Snapper but typically in shallower and rockier habitat. Also called "Beeliners" in the Gulf.

Preferred Water Temperature: 62°F–75°F. Found over live bottom, rocky ledges, and artificial reefs throughout its range. Commonly found in 80–180 feet of water in the Gulf of Mexico.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 7 lbs. World record: 7 lbs 3 oz. A beautiful rose-red fish — smaller than Red Snapper but excellent table fare. Often come up in fast-moving schools when found on good bottom.

Best Lures: Small to medium vertical jigs produce strikes from mid-water schools. Small Sabiki rigs with added cut bait catch multiple fish per drop.

Best Baits: Fresh cut squid on small hooks are the top bait. Small pieces of shrimp work very well. Cut cigar minnows produce consistent results. Small pieces of any fresh fish work. Light bottom rigs with small hooks and fresh bait are standard.

Western Atlantic Ocean — from North Carolina south through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean to Brazil. A mid-water and bottom snapper found over hard bottom, reefs, and ledges in 60–300 feet. Often found in the same areas as Red Snapper but typically in shallower and rockier habitat. Also called "Beeliners" in the Gulf.

62°F–75°F. Found over live bottom, rocky ledges, and artificial reefs throughout its range. Commonly found in 80–180 feet of water in the Gulf of Mexico.

Best Lures: Small to medium vertical jigs produce strikes from mid-water schools. Small Sabiki rigs with added cut bait catch multiple fish per drop. Best Baits: Fresh cut squid on small hooks are the top bait. Small pieces of shrimp work very well. Cut cigar minnows produce consistent results. Small pieces of any fresh fish work. Light bottom rigs with small hooks and fresh bait are standard.

Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 7 lbs. World record: 7 lbs 3 oz. A beautiful rose-red fish — smaller than Red Snapper but excellent table fare. Often come up in fast-moving schools when found on good bottom.