"Trout — actually spotted seatrout — are one of the most common fish in the lagoon. They're silver with black spots all over. They're not the hardest-fighting fish, but they're plentiful, they're fun, and they're delicious. They're also a great fish for beginners."
Meet the Spotted Seatrout
The spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus), commonly called 'trout' or 'speckled trout,' is one of the most abundant and popular game fish in the Indian River Lagoon. Spotted seatrout are silver to grayish-green with distinctive black spots scattered across their body and dorsal (top) fin, and they have two large canine teeth in their upper jaw. They typically range from 14-20 inches in the lagoon, though they can grow to over 30 inches and weigh over 10 pounds. Large trout (over 20 inches) are called 'gator trout' or 'yellowmouth trout' (their mouth turns yellow as they grow). Trout are found throughout the lagoon, particularly in grass flats, sandy potholes, and near drop-offs. They're a year-round fishery and an excellent species for beginning anglers because they're abundant, willing to bite, and relatively easy to catch.
