Speckled Trout
Cynoscion nebulosus
The most popular inshore fish of the Gulf Coast — easy to find, fun to catch, excellent table fare
📅 When to Fish
Habitat
Shallow coastal bays, grass flats, estuaries, and nearshore Gulf and Atlantic waters. Most abundant over seagrass beds.
Best Season
Fall and spring. Summer mornings on grass flats before heat sets in.
Best Times
Early morning on grass flats, especially during incoming tide.
Record
17 lbs 7 oz (Craig Carson, 1995)
Ideal Water Temp
55–85°F
Top Lures & Baits
- •Mirrolure 52M
- •Popping cork with shrimp
- •1/4 oz jig with DOA shrimp
- •Gold spoon
- •Live shrimp
🔍 Identification
Silver-gray body covered in distinct black spots above the lateral line. Yellow-tinged tail and fins. Two prominent canine teeth at front of upper jaw — handle carefully.
🍽️ Eating Quality
Excellent — one of the most prized eating fish on the Gulf Coast. Delicate, white, mild flesh. Often filleted and fried the same day.
📍 Where to Find It
🎣 Beginner Tip
A popping cork with a live shrimp suspended 18 inches below is the most consistent setup. Pop it every few seconds over grass — the noise triggers strikes from fish 20 feet away.