Spot Croaker
Leiostomus xanthurus
Spot Croaker is a small Atlantic croaker of estuaries and nearshore coastal waters, named for the black spot behind each gill cover. It is a popular baitfish and panfish, often schooling over sandy or muddy bottoms in warm months.
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Identification points
- Distinct black spot at the upper rear edge of the gill cover
- Silvery to yellowish body with a slightly arched back and pale underside
- Small mouth with a chin barbel and a long, low second dorsal fin
Habitat
Shallow estuaries, sounds, bays, tidal creeks, surf zones, and nearshore continental shelf waters over sand or mud; juveniles often use brackish nursery areas.
Bait notes
Best on small pieces of shrimp, bloodworms, sand fleas, squid strips, or cut clam. Tiny jigs tipped with bait and small shrimp-imitating soft plastics also take fish.
Behavior
Forms schools and feeds near the bottom on worms, small crustaceans, mollusks, and other benthic invertebrates. It is most active in warmer water and commonly produces a croaking/grunting sound when handled.
Caution
Has a spiny dorsal fin that can prick handlers; handle carefully. Check local regulations and size limits, as croakers can be subject to harvest rules; consumption guidance is usually routine for small coastal fish, with local advisories if present.
Fishing notes
Fish light tackle on the bottom with small hooks and minimal weight in moving water or around channel edges. Drifting, slow bottom bouncing, and short casts into tidal current seams are effective; smaller baits usually outfish larger ones.