Pinfish: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a Pinfish?
The Pinfish is a small, silver inshore species known for its sharp dorsal spines, striped sides, and legendary ability to steal bait faster than you can blink. Found in seagrass beds, docks, mangroves, and nearshore reefs, Pinfish are one of the most abundant forage fish in warm coastal waters — and a top-tier live bait for predators like Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, and Grouper.
The first FishyAF Pinfish was landed by Mike Harper, proving he’s not above adding the most important baitfish in the game to the official species list.
This guide breaks down where Pinfish live, how to catch them consistently, and why they’re one of the most valuable fish in any inshore ecosystem. Click here to see what inshore hunters are wearing.
🐟 Pinfish Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lagodon rhomboides |
| Average Size | 3–5 inches |
| Max Size | Up to ~10–12 inches |
| Habitat | Seagrass beds, beaches, docks, mangroves, nearshore reefs |
| Edible? | Technically yes — but mostly used as bait |
❓ FAQs About Pinfish
Where can you catch Pinfish?
Throughout the southeastern U.S., Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean. They thrive in shallow grassflats, docks, canals, and sandy-bottom transitions.
How big do Pinfish get?
Most are just a few inches long, but some adults grow nearly a foot. Big ones are often found around reefs and heavy structure.
Are Pinfish good to eat?
They’re edible but rarely targeted for food. Their real value is as one of the best live baits in saltwater.
How do you catch Pinfish?
Sabiki rigs, tiny hooks with shrimp, bread crumbs, or cut bait near docks and grass edges. Chumming helps a lot.
What’s the best bait or lure for Pinfish?
- Small pieces of shrimp - Squid strips - Tiny bits of cut bait - Flashy sabiki rigs - Chum to bring them close
When is the best time to catch Pinfish?
Year-round in warm coastal waters. They’re especially thick in summer and early fall.
😂 FishyAF Pinfish Joke
Pinfish — the only fish that eats your bait, steals your time, and still ends up as bait itself.
🚨 WE NEED YOUR HELP…
We’re on a mission to photograph 1,000 species with the FishyAF Brand. Got a Pinfish pic? Join the FishyAF Ambassador Awards Program.
🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
For long days on the flats, grab the Switchback Hat and Performance Sun Shirt — built for shallow-water missions.