Spotted Seatrout

Cynoscion nebulosus

The spotted seatrout is sturdy, elongated fish with a dark gray or green back, iridescent sides and a silvery belly. Adults have:

• Black, round spots on the back that extend to the tail and dorsal fins.
• A large mouth with two large canine teeth protruding out of the upper jaw.
• A dorsal fin divided by a deep notch.
• Also known as "speckled trout".

Spotted seatrout grow to 14-20 inches long.

Where do spotted seatrout live?

Spotted seatrout live in both inshore and nearshore waters where the bottom is grassy or sandy. They are most commonly found in brackish or marine waters to depths of up to 32 feet. Spotted seatrout visit the Chesapeake Bay beginning in spring and can be found as far north as Annapolis.

What do spotted seatrout eat?

Spotted seatrout are a top predator in the Chesapeake Bay food web, feasting on shrimps and small fish.

How do spotted seatrout reproduce?

Spotted seatrout spawn in the salty waters near the Chesapeake Bay’s mouth when temperatures rise to 77-82 degrees Fahrenheit.  Females may spawn anywhere from nine to 60 times during the season, releasing as many as three to 20 million eggs each year. 

Spotted seatrout larvae hatch 18 hours after fertilization and are carried by currents to brackish water nursery areas, commonly in shallow sea grass beds. At six to eight weeks of age, juveniles begin to form schools with individuals of similar size.

Other facts about spotted sea trout:

• Spotted seatrout are also known as specs or speckled trout.
• The average spotted seatrout weighs about five pounds, but the world record trout weighed in at 17 pounds 7 ounces.
• Spotted seatrout can live approximately 18 years, with females outliving most males.