Atlantic Croaker

Name:

Atlantic Croaker

Scientific Name:

Micropogonias undulatus

Fish Habits:

Extremely young croaker eat small planktonic organisms, while juveniles and adults feed on bottom organisms such as marine worms, mollusks, crustaceans, and occasionally fish. In turn, they are eaten by many species, including striped bass, flounder, weakfish, and spotted seatrout.

Fishing Tactics:

Croaker are among the simplest saltwater species to catch in terms of fishing methods. They are a bottom-feeding panfish that trolls the sea floor gobbling up small shellfish, sea worms, and other tiny organisms. Therefore, the most reliable way to catch them is a standard two-hook high-low rig anchored to the bottom with a few ounces of lead.

Distribution:

Atlantic croaker live in coastal waters from Maine to Florida. Spawning occurs from July through December. The larvae develop into juveniles in estuaries. Croaker mature between the ages of one and two.