Snook (Centropomus undecimalis)
- Size: Most snook range from 20 to 36 inches in length. However, larger specimens can reach over 40 inches and weigh 30 pounds or more.
- Habitat: Snook are commonly found inhabiting various inshore habitats such as grass flats, mangrove shorelines, docks, bridges, and channel edges.
- Bait: Live bait is highly effective for snook as they are predatory and aggressive. Common live baits include pilchards (also known as whitebait or greenbacks), pinfish, finger mullet, and shrimp free-lined or under a popping cork.
- Tackle: Snook put up a very strong and acrobatic fight. Light to medium-light spinning tackle will make for quite a battle and heavier gear is a must around docks and bridges.
- Food Value: Although delicious, snook are a highly-regulated catch-and-release species in Florida. Handle them with care, avoid overexerting them during the fight, and release them as quickly as possible to ensure their survival.