Photo: Unknown author / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Lutjanus campechanus
Northern Red Snapper
Saltwater
About this species
The iconic crimson reef fish of the Gulf of Mexico and southeastern U.S. coast. It gathers over wrecks, rigs and rocky bottoms in deeper water, striking hard on baits. Tightly regulated seasons make each keeper prized on the table.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
10 – 100 m
Habitat Spots
OffshoreReef
Fishing Methods
BottomJigging
Bait & Rig
Cut squid, cigar minnows or live bait on a knocker rig over structure.
Edibility & Taste
Sweet, firm white flesh considered one of the best table fish of the Gulf.
Similar Species
Told from vermilion snapper by its larger size, red eye and pointed anal fin.
Record Weight
22 kg