First Cast species profile

Croaker

Micropogonias undulatus

Saltwater

Also called: atlantic croaker, hardhead croaker, golden croaker

Overview

A bottom-oriented inshore fish that feeds around sandy or muddy channels, piers, and bay edges.

Family: Sciaenidae
Typical habitat: Sandy bottom, Channels, Piers, Bay edges
Takes: Shrimp, Fish bites, Small cut bait
Seasonality: Tide, wind, and water clarity shape the bite more than the calendar; verify current regulations before keeping fish.

Identification

Not sure what you have caught? Photograph it and First Cast will identify it against the species master.

Needs review: check current TPWD Outdoor Annual before harvesting.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Verify current regulations with the state or federal authority before fishing.