Pigfish

 | By xfernal on 12/17/2021 6:35:05 PM | Views (611)

Pigfish are characterized by a long, sloping snout, 12 to 13 anal fin rays and the grunting sound they make when removed from the water. The fish are a pale blue-gray color at the top that shades to silver below. The cheeks and upper sides have brassy or golden variable markings that form wavy lines and the fins are yellow-bronze. Pigfish grow to 19 inches and 2 pounds.

Spawning occurs inshore in the spring and early summer and in the open ocean just prior to migration into the estuaries. Pigfish reach maturity during the second year of life when the fish are as small as 7 inches.

The name pigfish was probably originated from the grunting noises they make when caught. Like other members of the grunt family, a pigfish makes a grunting sound by rubbing the teeth in their throat together. Pigfish use their throat teeth to grind up shellfish and small bits of other food.

Pigfish are found in warm, temperate waters as far north as Cape Cod, Mass., but are most abundant south of the Chesapeake Bay in coastal waters over sand and mud bottom.

Adult pigfish are benthic carnivores that eat a variety of bottom invertebrates, such as worms, mollusks, amphipods, shrimp and crabs.

Pigfish can be caught in late spring and fall using a standard two-hook bottom rig baited with shrimp, squid or bloodworms. Anglers often find greater success while fishing near structures or on hard or broken bottom. Although the flesh is edible, most pigfish are used as excellent live bait for larger fish such as flounder, grouper, red drum, snook, speckled seatrout, and tarpon.
 

Catch Information

Species:
Pigfish