Anglers looking for a new and exciting pursuit should look into snook fishing. This aggressive, exciting fish can create fast-paced adventures when you take to the water. If you want to add the snook to your list of fish, make sure you understand the snook fishing dates in your area.
What are the Snook Season Dates?
Snook seasons will change by state, so you need to check your state’s regulations before fishing for this species.
In Florida, for example, snook regulations are divided into two areas: the Atlantic and the Gulf. For the Atlantic area, snook fishing is closed between December 15th and January 31st, as well as June 1st through August 31st. This leaves two snook seasons: the winter/spring season between February 1st and May 31st, as well as the fall season between September 1st and December 14th.
The Gulf area has similar seasons, although the specific Snook fishing dates may be adjusted. Other states may offer year-round snook fishing.
How Does The Snook Look?
The snook is most distinguishable by its long dark line that runs from the gills, near the top of the gills, to the tail. It has a large mouth with a protruding lower jaw, and the corner of the mouth reaches all the way back to the rear portion of the eye.
It’s a sleek fish, with a sloping forehead that reduces water resistance. It also has a high dorsal fin divided into two sections, which is also an important feature for identifying these fish. It has a pelvic fin that is yellowish in tone.
Snooks have an interesting biological trait. They actually begin life as males, but when they reach about 18 to 22 inches in length, some of the species become female.
Where Are They Found?
These fish are most often found in and around nearshore and coastal waters. They find habitat in mangroves and beds of seagrass, as well as beaches and submerged structures.
This is a warm-water fish that generally can’t survive in water temperatures below 60 degrees. This makes their range limited to warm tropical waters. They are found in the western coastal waters of the Atlantic ocean, from Brazil in the south to the Gulf of Mexico and Florida. They are found as far north as Georgia and are even caught (although rarely) off the coast of South Carolina.
They are common in the Gulf of Mexico, so anglers in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas can all target this species.
How to Catch a Snook?
Snook are usually caught with live bait, including pinfish, small mullet shrimp, and sardines. These can be free-lined or fished off the bottom with a fish-finder rig. Snook will also strike at a variety of different artificial lures.
If you catch a snook, be aware of the gill covers. These plates are razor sharp and can easily slice a finger or hand.
Find the Right Boat for Snook Fishing
Make sure you have the right boat for snook fishing. Visit ScoutBoats.com and browse our large selection of high-quality vessels. You’ll find the perfect craft for snook fishing, such as the 215 XSF, which has a nimble profile that allows you to access the best snook fishing holes.
