Mutton Snapper: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a Mutton Snapper?
The Mutton Snapper is a tropical favorite — bright colors, tough fight, and incredible flavor. Found across the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, this snapper is as beautiful as it is powerful. You’ll find them hanging around reefs, ledges, and wrecks, waiting to ambush anything that looks tasty.
The first FishyAF Mutton Snapper was caught by @dentative9111 — deep drop, hard hit, and a photo that belongs on every angler’s bucket list.
This FishyAF guide breaks down how to find, hook, and cook these tropical titans. Click here to see what snapper slayers are wearing.
🐟 Mutton Snapper Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lutjanus analis |
| Average Size | 5–15 lbs typical; can exceed 25 lbs |
| World Record | 30 lbs 4 oz — Dry Tortugas, FL (IGFA) |
| Habitat | Reefs, ledges, wrecks, and sandy bottoms in 20–200 ft of water |
| Edible? | Absolutely — firm, white, mild, and top-tier table quality |
❓ FAQs About Mutton Snapper
Where can you catch Mutton Snapper?
They’re found throughout the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic — from shallow reefs to deep wrecks. Hot zones include the Florida Keys, Bahamas, and Yucatán.
How big do Mutton Snapper get?
Most run 5–15 lbs, but 20+ pounders are common offshore. The IGFA record fish weighed 30 lbs 4 oz — a reef tank with fins.
What is the world record Mutton Snapper?
The record Mutton Snapper tipped the scales at 30 lbs 4 oz caught in Florida’s Dry Tortugas — pure muscle and flavor.
Are Mutton Snapper good to eat?
One of the best-tasting fish in the ocean — flaky, sweet, and buttery. Grill, fry, or bake — you can’t miss.
How do you catch Mutton Snapper?
Use live or dead baits like ballyhoo, pilchards, or squid on a bottom rig. Light leader, patience, and good current sense are key.
What’s the best bait for Mutton Snapper?
Live pilchards, pinfish, or fresh-cut bait — and chum helps bring them close. They’re smart, so natural presentation matters.
When is the best time to catch Mutton Snapper?
Spring through early fall, especially around full moons when they spawn offshore in big schools.
😂 FishyAF Mutton Snapper Joke
Mutton Snapper — proof that beauty, brains, and biceps can all swim together.
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🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
From reef runs to dockside dinners, Mutton Snapper anglers trust our Switchback Hats and Offshore Hoodies — built for bright days and heavy hauls.