Simple Tips on How to Catch Croaker & Why They’re Prized

Phote credit score Jeff Woleslagle
There are a number of species of fish which might be referred to as “croaker” however maybe the one mostly recognized by that identify is the Atlantic Croaker (Micropogonias undulatus.) It will get its identify from the sound it will possibly make utilizing its air bladder. Though it could solely attain 24 inches, the Atlantic Croaker is a extremely prized.
Studying how one can catch croaker shouldn’t be tough for a few causes. First, it is extremely frequent fish with a spread from Massachusetts to Texas in accordance with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. And second, there’s all kinds of croaker bait that appears to work nicely.
The croaker has a subterminal mouth and so feeds close to the underside. When contemplating one of the best bait for croaker, I’ve caught them on shrimp however avid angler, Jeff Woleslagle, could use bloodworms, each stay and artificial, squid strips, or sections of crab. As for croaker fishing rigs, Jeff likes to make use of a two-hook rig with measurement 6 or 8 hooks. “To me they’re the saltwater equal of a smallmouth bass,” he shared. “For his or her measurement, they really combat with all they’ve.” Any fish that earns comparability to the famend smallmouth bass is getting excessive reward, certainly.
Nonetheless another excuse anglers prefer to learn to catch croaker is that they’re slightly tasty. Nonetheless, if catch and launch is the aim, contemplate circle hooks. The trick with the circle hook is to withstand jerking the hook. Simply quickly tighten the road as a substitute.
A good way to learn to fish for Atlantic croaker is to go to a coastal bait retailer. Right here, yow will discover nice locations for fishing entry and study all concerning the license necessities and laws. Then, with just a few bait and a lightweight spinning rod and reel, you too could expertise this spunky fish.