Description: Bluish-gray, head has horizontal blue stripes, white underbelly; large bright orange mouthDescription: Bluish-gray, head has horizontal blue stripes, white underbelly; large bright orange mouth
Where Found: From shore to the outer reef edge or on offshore hard bottom to 115 feet; most abundant in water less than 80 feet deep.
Feeding Habits: feeds on squid, crustaceans, mollusks and small fishes. Provides a good little fight for its size. Average catch per angler is around 15-20 fish.
Size Range: Most common catches 1-2 lbs.
Food Value: Excellent table fare. Fillets are small, but make a great meal in quantity. Best if breaded and pan-fried. Famous Florida dish “grits and grunts”.