Other names: -
The Atlantic croaker, Micropogonias undulatus, is a bottom-dwelling fish found in coastal waters of the western Atlantic. It is distinguished by its croaking sound produced by vibrating its swim bladder. This species is popular among anglers for its taste and accessibility in shallow waters.
Other names
-
Length
~45" (max 68)
Weight
~1" (max 4)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
5-36° F
Depth
7-131 ft
Blood worms
Clams
Crabs
Cut Bait (Fish)
Peeler crabs
Shrimp
Squid
Squid stripsAlways open
No
8"
Total Length
Atlantic croakers prefer shallow coastal waters, often over mud and sandy mud bottoms
They are commonly found in estuaries and nearshore environments where they feed and spawn
Juveniles thrive in estuarine nurseries, benefiting from the protection and abundant food supply
Their diet includes worms, crustaceans, and small fish, which they forage on the sea floor
Spawning occurs in the fall and winter in offshore waters
Eggs and larvae drift in the plankton before settling into estuarine nurseries
Juveniles remain in these nurseries until they grow larger and move to deeper waters
Adults return to coastal areas annually to spawn, ensuring a consistent lifecycle
