Spotted Seatrout (Speckled Trout)

Appearance

Spotted seatrout – or speckled trout, as they’re commonly called – are a spiny-rayed fish with a silvery body, and have numerous distinct black spots on back and dorsal fins. They have well-developed canine teeth with a projected lower jaw.

Habitat

Found throughout the Gulf, from interior estuaries to waters approaching 30 feet offshore. Tend to shy away from hard bottoms and structure.

Top Spots

Venice, Grand Isle, Vermilion Bay, Lake Pontchartrain

State Record

12.38 pounds, Leon Mattes, 1950

Fishing Tips

Larger trout are not nearly as abundant as smaller trout, but they are a much more common catch in the spring, when trout move closer to inner shores to spawn.