Gafftopsail Catfish
The gafftopsail sea catfish, Bagre marinus, is a marine fish commonly found in the western Atlantic, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean coasts. Notable for its elongated pectoral and dorsal fins resembling sails, it is an opportunistic feeder. Anglers often encounter this species due to its prevalence in coastal waters and estuaries.
Length~43 (max 69)
Weight~1 (max 4)
WaterSalt, brackish
Water Temp16-30° F
Depth50 ft
- Other names-
- Length~43 (max 69)
- Weight~1 (max 4)
- WaterSalt, brackish
- Water Temp16-30° F
- Depth50 ft
Popular lures for Gafftopsail Catfish
Regulation for Gafftopsail Catfish
- Season-
- Bag limit-
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size-
- Measurement-
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Spawning occurs in shallow waters, with males carrying eggs in their mouths
- Eggs hatch into larvae, which remain in protected shallow areas
- Juveniles feed on small invertebrates until they grow larger
- Adults display solitary or small group behavior, especially outside the breeding season
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in shallow waters, with males carrying eggs in their mouths
- Eggs hatch into larvae, which remain in protected shallow areas
- Juveniles feed on small invertebrates until they grow larger
- Adults display solitary or small group behavior, especially outside the breeding season