Other names: Porgy
The scup, or Stenotomus chrysops, is a marine fish commonly found along the Atlantic coast of North America. It is recognized by its deep, laterally compressed body and silvery coloration. Scup frequent inshore waters during warmer months and are popular among recreational and commercial fishermen due to their abundance and schooling behavior.
Other names
Porgy
Length
~33" (max 46)
Weight
~1" (max 2)
Water
Salt
Water Temp
12-25° F
Depth
200 ft
Berkley PowerBait Minnow 3"
Clams
Rapala Slab Rap
Sand worms
Squid
WormsOpen from May 01 to December 31
30
11"; 9.5" (Shore anglers)
Total Length
Prefers coastal waters with sandy or rocky bottoms, often near reefs and piers
Found inshore during spring and summer, moving offshore as temperatures drop
Feeds primarily on small crustaceans, mollusks, and worms
Often seen in large schools, making them easy to locate for anglers
Spawning occurs in late spring to early summer in shallow coastal waters
Eggs are pelagic, floating with the current until they hatch
Juveniles remain in shallow, protected areas before joining adult schools
Seasonal migrations are influenced by water temperature, with scup moving offshore in winter
