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Palometa

Trachinotus goodei

Appearance

palometa

Also known as great pompano.

  • Gray to blue-green on top of head and along the back
  • Bright silver sides, yellowish belly
  • Very elongated dorsal and anal fins, dusky or black with bluish edges
  • Deep body; four narrow bars on the sides, traces of a fifth near the tail
  • No scutes (bone-like projections)

Similar Species: Florida pompano, T. carolinus; and permit, T. falcatus (both lack elongated dorsal and anal fins and lack dark bars on sides)

Size: Usually less than 20 inches (1 pound) 

Habitat

Clear water along sandy beaches and bays, and occasionally found over reefs. Most common in south Florida.

Behavior

Spawn offshore in spring, summer and fall. 

Additional Information

State Record: This species is not currently eligible for a state record.

Fishing Tips and Facts: Palometa readily strikes small artificial lures.

Recreational Regulations

 

Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles