Common snook
FISH PROFILE
COMMON NAME
Common Snook
Scientific name
Centropomus undecimalis
FAMILY
Centropomidae family
LENGTH
20 inches
DIET
Small fish, shrimp, crab
FISH PROFILE
COMMON NAME
Common Snook
Scientific name
Centropomus undecimalis
FAMILY
Centropomidae family
LENGTH
20 inches
DIET
Small fish, shrimp, crab
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Snook are a very popular Florida fish that typically grow to be roughly 20 inches in length and weigh around 30 pounds. They have a dull gray color with a slight yellow tint and can be identified by the distinct black lateral line along the body. They have a long body with a sloping forehead and may also have bright yellow fins.
RANGE, HABITAT, and BEHAVIOR
Snook inhabit areas along Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts, with populations also located in North Carolina and Texas. They can be found in estuaries as well as inland rivers and springs due to a tolerance of both salt and fresh water. Snook feed on smaller fish and crustaceans such as shrimp and crab.
FUN FACTS
Snook are popular game and food fish. Though females tend to be a bit longer than males, there is little to no physical difference between male and female snook. Interestingly, snook are hermaphroditic, meaning some fish will transition from male to female after maturation. Snook are vulnerable to temperature changes – they may die when Florida experiences a sudden cold front.