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Spotted Seatrout


Spotted Seatrout are dusky gray on top fading to silver at the belly. The upper body is marked with numerous dark spots which extend into the tail.

The dorsal fins and tail of the Spotted Seatrout are pale yellowish green.

Spotted Seatrout Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.
Season Open Year-Round
Size Limit 12 inch minimum (total length)
Daily Limit / Person No Limit
Delaware Range Atlantic Ocean, Lower Delaware Bay and Inland Bays
Abundance in Delaware Waters Uncommon - this species is more common south of Delaware.
General Habitat and Food Preferences Spotted Seatrout can be found in tidal rivers, shallow coastal bays, and possibly along the surf.

Adult Spotted Seatrout frequent grass beds, oyster bars, creek mouths, drop offs, and submerged structure, usually in less than 10 feet of water.

They feed on shrimps, crabs, and small fishes.
Did You Know? Spotted Seatrout are also known as the speckled trout.

The Spotted Seatrout has prominent pointy canine teeth.
Common Lures and Baits Spotted Seatrout can be caught with jigs, swim baits, spoons, and artificial fish and shrimp like lures.

Pieces of peeler crab, shrimp, and live minnows are good baits.
Typical Sizes Caught In general, Spotted Seatrout are caught by Delaware anglers at less than 14 inches in length.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Spotted Seatrout 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 Spotted Seatrout are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

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