Gray Triggerfish
Gray Triggerfish
Balistes capriscus
Common Triggerfish
Life History
Description and Diagnostic Characteristics: The Gray Triggerfish has large incisor teeth and a deep laterally compressed body covered with tough, sandpaper-like skin. Unlike their cousin, the filefish, triggerfish have more than one dorsal spine. The action of this spine gives the triggerfish its (common) name. The first spine is large, and when erect it remains so until the smaller second spine is deflexed, triggering the first. The gray triggerfish is easily distinguished by its drab color from the queen triggerfish, which is vividly colored.
Size: Average around 2 pounds
Age at Maturity: 3 years or about 12 inches
Range: Cape Hatteras to South Florida and Bermuda, also can range up to New England
Habitat: Mostly on offshore reefs and wrecks
Angling Information
Bait and Tackle: Spinning, baitcasting, and light ocean rigs with small hooks. Use shrimp or any cut bait. Artificial lures, especially plastics, work but not as well.
Fishing Method: Still fishing, drifting
Food Value: Excellent although meat is hard to clean because of tough skin.
State Regulation
Daily Limit: Federal Regulations Apply
