Atlantic Croaker
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.
Length~45 (max 68)
Weight~1 (max 4)
WaterSalt
Water Temp5-36° F
Depth7-131 ft
- Other names-
- Length~45 (max 68)
- Weight~1 (max 4)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp5-36° F
- Depth7-131 ft
Popular lures for Atlantic Croaker
Regulation for Atlantic Croaker
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limitNo
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size8"
- MeasurementTotal Length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- 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
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- 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