Snook

Snook

Centropomus undecimalis

Average Size

5-15 lbs (24-33 inches)

World Record

53 lbs 10 oz

Best Season

Summer (beach spawn) and Winter (backcountry)

Water Type

Saltwater

About Snook

The snook is one of the most prized inshore game fish in Florida and the Gulf Coast. Known for their distinctive black lateral line, powerful runs, and gill-rattling headshakes, snook are a challenging and rewarding target. These structure-oriented predators are found around mangroves, bridges, docks, and beaches. Snook tournaments are popular throughout South Florida, where anglers target these wary fish in both backcountry and surf environments.

Habitat & Environment

Tropical and subtropical coastal waters, mangrove shorelines, inlets, beaches, and estuaries. Very sensitive to cold water - rarely found where temperatures drop below 60°F.

World Record

53 lbs 10 oz (Gilbert Ponzi, Parismina Ranch, Costa Rica, 1978)

Did You Know?

Snook are protandrous hermaphrodites - they are born male and some transition to female as they grow larger. Most snook over 30 inches are female.

Top Techniques

Live Bait (Pilchards, Shrimp)Soft PlasticsTopwaterJerkbaitsFly FishingSurf Fishing

Top States

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