Sea Trout

Sea Trout the Basics

Though named “trout,” the Sea Trout is not a trout at all. It is actually in the drum family (similar to Redfish). Sea Trout are some of the most aggressive, veracious fish in the Florida area. They are not picky when it comes to choosing their prey and are excellent ambush hunters.

Sea Trout only grow to about 18-25 inches long and can weigh anywhere from one to six pounds. The average catch in Key West is between one and two pounds with Sea Trout up to five pounds showing up occasionally. They typically grow quickly, reaching 12 inches between one and two years. The largest Sea Trout are called “Gator Trout.” In fact, if Sea Trout grew any larger, they would be a fairly dangerous fish for people to target due to their large teeth and ambush hunting tactics. Sea Trout are excellent for novice fisherman as they are a schooling fish.

HowSea Trout Feed and What's Unique

When still small, Sea Trout feed on crustaceans such as shrimp. When they become larger, they will begin to eat fish, some very large. They appear to prefer Mullet. Sea Trout will attempt to swallow an entire Mullet, sometimes half or two-thirds as large as the Sea Trout! The Sea Trout features large canine teeth, and a dorsal fin with no scales. The back is covered with spots, covering the dorsal and caudal fins, and two anal spines.

How We Get Sea Trout

Sea Trout are often found in waters with Lady Fish. They prefer deep grass bottoms in a Basin where their food is plentiful. They also frequent the outsides of Mullet muds. Muddy bottoms and ambush points are excellent spots to hunt this fish. Anglers see success using popping corks and floats with live shrimp as the best bait.