Delaware.gov logo

DNREC Menu


Florida Pompano


Florida Pompano are greenish gray on top shading to silvery sides with gold on the throat, pelvic, and anal fins.

Florida Pompano Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.
Season Open Year-Round
Size Limit No Size Limit
Daily Limit / Person No Limit
Delaware Range Atlantic Ocean
Abundance in Delaware Waters Uncommon - this species is more common south of Delaware.
General Habitat and Food Preferences Florida Pompano are found in inshore and nearshore waters, especially along sandy beaches.

They feed on squids, shrimps, and sand fleas.
Did You Know? If the water is clear, sometimes Florida Pompano can be seen chasing sand fleas in and out of the breaking waves along the beach.
Common Lures and Baits Florida Pompano have fairly small mouths, so baits and hooks should be small.

Surf fishing often requires the use of bottom rigs with cut shrimp or whole sand fleas fished just past the breakers.

Small jigs and even shrimp fly patterns may also be used to catch Florida Pompano.
Typical Sizes Caught In general, Florida Pompano caught by anglers weigh between 1 and 3 pounds.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Florida Pompano are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award, but a large specimen may qualify for an “Unusual Species” award.
Delaware State Record Florida Pompano are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

+