Snapper, Red
Food Quality:
Avg. Length
18-24in
Avg. Weight
6-10lbs
World Record
50lbs 4oz
FL Record
46lbs 8oz
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Lutjanus campechanus
Common Names
Pargo colorado, Genuine red snapper, North American red snapper
Description
Red Snapper takes its name from the sometimes bright or deep red body with a white underbelly. Although thought of as bright red they can take on nearly any hue of red in appearance. They also have a red iris and an angular snout. The younger fish often have a splotch of darker coloration about midway down the fish. The Red Snapper appears as though it has a sloping face and a little bit of an under bite with noticeably larger canine teeth.
Habitat & Behaviour
Younger Red Snappers have been known to favor sand or mud laden bottoms, as opposed to the mature fish that prefer mid to shallow depth and bottoms with structures or rocks.
Natural Prey
Red Snappers subsist on a diet of cephlapods and small invertebrates as well as small fish and crustaceans which they locate in flat areas next to reefs.
Handling Tips
Reef fish like the Snapper require anglers to use dehooking tools and venting tools to safely release the fish. When releasing keep in water, remove hook with pliers or dehooker and vent accordingly if you brought it up from a deep depth. Don’t put fingers in mouth, grab behind head or underneath. Don’t grab by gills – grab underneath on the belly. Try not to damage the fish – don’t recommend grabbing by eyes. If harvesting, gaff larger ones around head. Meat very sought after so don’t gaff there.
- Lucky Tackle Box
- Billfish Bounty in the Heart of the Mayan World – Guatemala
- The Best Species of Shark to Catch
- How to Catch a Shark: what equipment do you need?
- The Best Winter Fishing Spots in Texas