Spot: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a Spot?
The Spot (also called Spot Croaker) is a small, silver inshore fish known for its distinctive dark “spot” just behind the gill plate. They travel in massive schools along beaches, bays, estuaries, and piers — and they’re one of the most important forage fish on the East Coast. Kids love catching them, predators love eating them, and bait shops love selling them.
The first FishyAF Spot was landed by Mike Harper, who clearly isn’t afraid to log the essential species that fuel entire ecosystems.
This guide breaks down where Spot live, how they feed, why they’re so important to inshore fisheries, and how to catch them fast. Click here to see what Spot anglers are wearing.
🐟 Spot Fish Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Leiostomus xanthurus |
| Average Size | 5–8 inches |
| Max Size | Up to ~14 inches |
| Habitat | Beaches, bays, estuaries, rivers, coastal shallows |
| Edible? | Yes — mild white meat, often fried |
❓ FAQs About Spot (Spot Croaker)
Where can you catch Spot?
From Massachusetts to Florida, especially around piers, surf zones, muddy bottoms, tidal creeks, and estuaries where they school by the thousands.
How big do Spot get?
Most are under 8 inches, but large ones (called “horse spot”) can reach nearly a foot long.
Are Spot good to eat?
Yes — they have mild, sweet white flesh. Many anglers fry them whole or use them for fish tacos.
How do you catch Spot?
Light tackle with tiny hooks, small pieces of shrimp, worms, or Fishbites. Great for filling coolers — or catching live bait.
What’s the best bait or lure for Spot?
- Shrimp pieces - Bloodworms - Squid strips - Fishbites - Sabiki rigs
When is the best time to catch Spot?
Summer and early fall. They feed aggressively on moving tides, especially around structure and current breaks.
😂 FishyAF Spot Joke
Spot — the fish that always leaves a mark… literally.
🚨 WE NEED YOUR HELP…
We’re on a mission to photograph 1,000 species with the FishyAF Brand. Got a Spot photo? Join the FishyAF Ambassador Awards Program.
🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
Whether you're bait fishing or surf fishing, grab the Switchback Hat and Performance Sun Shirt — built for long days on the water.