Scup
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.
Length~33 (max 46)
Weight~1 (max 2)
WaterSalt
Water Temp12-25° F
Depth200 ft
- Other namesPorgy
- Length~33 (max 46)
- Weight~1 (max 2)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp12-25° F
- Depth200 ft
Popular lures for Scup
Regulation for Scup
- SeasonOpened from May 01, to December 31
- Bag limit30
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size11" (Boat); 9.5" (Shore)
- MeasurementTotal length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- 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
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- 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