Pigfish

Orthopristis chrysoptera
Grunt

Life History

Description and Diagnostic Characteristics: : The back is gray to blue; sides are light tan or whitish with orange lines and diagonal bars. The back is elevated and it has a long, tapered snout.

Size: Common between 3-10 inches

Range: South Florida to Cape Hatteras, straggling to New York, also Bermuda

Habitat: A variety of shallow water habitats (sand, mud or grassy bottoms).

Angling Information

Bait and Tackle: Cane pole and light spinning gear work well with cut bait or shrimp. They will also go for jigs or small plugs

Fishing Method: Drifting, still fishing

Food Value: Large fish are good panfish