Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Lutjanus campechanus
Genuine Red Snapper
Life History
Description and Diagnostic Characteristics: Bright rosy red on top, deepening as the fish grows larger, fading to silver on belly. The canine teeth are present but less prominent than those of the Gray or Mutton Snapper. The eye is red and the anal fin triangular, long triangular snout.
Size: Common up to 10 pounds
Age at Maturity: By 2 years
Range: Central Florida to Cape Hatteras but can be found south to South Florida or north to New Jersey
Habitat: Adults are found over rocky bottoms offshore in waters 100-200 feet. Juveniles inhabit shallow waters, common over sand or muddy bottoms.
Angling Information
Bait and Tackle: Dead minnows or Pilchards or cut fish and squid will sometimes work but more often, live small baitfish are needed. In shallower waters light ocean tackle of heavy spinning and baitcasting tackle will be fine but in deeper waters, very heavy rods with strong lines of 50-80 pound test are needed.
Fishing Method: Casting, still fishing, drifting
Food Value: Excellent
State Regulation
Daily Limit: 2
Minimum size: 20″ TL
