Spotted Drum
Eques punctatus
Spotted Drum (Eques punctatus) is a small, bottom-associated marine fish of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. It is recognizable by its mottled pattern and elongated dorsal fin, and is more often noted by divers than targeted by anglers.
Identification points
- Yellow-brown to tan body with distinct dark spotting/mottling
- Very long, low soft-rayed dorsal fin extending along much of the back
- Small, elongated drum-like body with a pointed snout and slight downward mouth
Habitat
Shallow tropical coastal waters over sand, rubble, seagrass, and reef margins; commonly near the bottom in bays, lagoons, and sheltered reef flats.
Bait notes
Not a common sport target. Small pieces of shrimp, squid, or cut bait may take it incidentally when fishing near reef edges or sandy bottom; tiny jigs or soft plastics fished low can also work.
Behavior
A benthic, nocturnal feeder that forages close to the substrate on small crustaceans and other invertebrates. It tends to stay near cover and may use its drumming muscles to produce sounds.
Caution
None notable; handle carefully to avoid injury from spiny fins, and follow local regulations if encountered as bycatch.
Fishing notes
Fish light tackle close to bottom in shallow tropical water around structure, sand patches, and seagrass edges. A slow retrieve or dead-sticking small baits is more effective than fast-moving presentations.