Texas Gulf Coast Fishing

Red Snapper

RED SNAPPER - Lutjanus campechanus Family Lutjanidae, SNAPPERS

Description: This snapper has long pectoral fins and a truncate caudal fin. The first and second dorsal fins are continuous with a slight notch in between the two and the anal fin tapers to a sharp point posteriorly. The pectoral fins are long and reach the anus when pressed against the body. They have a large head with small red eyes. It's color is pinkish red over entire body, whitish below, and a long triangular snout. At a size less than 14 inches, juevenile red snapper have a dark spot on the upper sides below the anterior soft dorsal rays – similar to a number of other snappers. Juvenile red snapper may also exhibit bluish stripes on their sides.
Similar fish: silk snapper, L. vivanus.
Where found: OFFSHORE on the continental shelf. Red Snapper are found in the western Atlantic Ocean, from Massachusetts to Brazil, although it is uncommon north of the Carolinas. It is also occurs in the Gulf of Mexico.
Size: to 30 pounds
Remarks: juveniles occur over sandy or mud bottoms and are often taken in shrimp trawls; adults may live more than 20 years, and attain 35 pounds or more; sexual maturity attained at age 2; spawns June to October; feeds on crustaceans and fish.

Adult Red Snapper

Juevenille Red Snapper