Vermilion Snapper
Vermilion Snapper
Rhomboplites aurorubens
Beeliner
Life History
Description and Diagnostic Characteristics: Color of entire body reddish, with diagonal blue lines formed by spots on the scales above the lateral line; sometimes with yellow streaks below the lateral line; large canine teeth absent; anal fin is rounded; orientation of mouth and eye give it the appearance of looking upward; no dark lateral spot.
Size: Usually less than one pound
Age at Maturity: All vermilion snapper are mature at 2 years of age and 7.9″ total length
Range: Cape Hatteras to Central Florida, also Bermuda
Habitat: Found in moderately deep waters, most common over rock, gravel or sand bottoms near the edge of the continental and island shelves. Young fish occur in shallower depths (below 25 m). Often form large schools, particularly the young.
Angling Information
Bait and Tackle: Heavier weights are needed to get down to depth but smaller hooks should be used than those for other snapper or grouper. Spinning and baitcasting tackle are better but often cannot get down to depth. Any small dead bait works well including cut fish, squid, and shrimp.
Fishing Method: Still fishing, drifting
Food Value: Excellent panfish
State Regulation
Daily Limit: Federal Regulations Apply
