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Red Snapper

Lutjanus campechanus

Appearance

Illustration of a red snapper showing important characteristics
  • Body is pinkish-red in color, fading to a white belly
  • Snout long and triangular
  • Red eye
  • Rear of anal fin pointed
  • No dark spot on sides in adults

Similar Species: Silk snapper, L. vivanus (has a yellow eye); and vermilion snapper, R. aurorubens (has rounded anal fin) Size: Up to 36 inches (35 pounds) 

Habitat

Offshore near structure. Juveniles are found over sand or mud bottoms.

Behavior

Spawn from June to October. Sexual maturity is attained at age 2. Adults can live more than 20 years, possibly even up to 60 years.

Feed on crustaceans and fish.

Additional Information

State Record: 46 lb 8 oz, caught near Destin

Fishing Tips and Facts: Snappers will take soft-bodied jigs, bucktails and spoons.

Recreational Regulations

 

Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles