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Spotted Seatrout

Spotted Seatrout

Spotted Seatrout, locally called speckled trout or 'specks,' are Louisiana's most popular saltwater gamefish, targeted by more recreational anglers than any other saltwater species.

Scientific Name: Cynoscion nebulosus

Also known as speckled trout, specks

Physical Characteristics:
  • These silver-gray fish with distinctive black spots on their back and fins have elongated bodies with slightly elevated backs and prominent canine teeth.
  • In Louisiana, they average 2-5 pounds, with females growing larger than males.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit Louisiana's entire coastal zone from nearly-fresh blackwater ponds to full saltwater, thriving in the state's extensive estuarine system that provides ideal brackish conditions.
  • Speckled trout are non-migratory, staying within the estuary where they were born.

Key Locations

  • Lake Pontchartrain (especially Causeway Bridge pilings, Seabrook Bridge, and the Trestles), Barataria Basin, Terrebonne Bay, Calcasieu Lake, and the extensive marsh systems around Venice, Delacroix, Dulac, and Cocodrie.
  • Saltier outside waters near Venice, Grand Isle, Cocodrie, and major passes.

Specific Spots

  • Fish structure like bridge pilings, oyster reefs, grass beds, and drop-offs with moving water.
  • Target deeper holes and oyster reefs during winter.
  • Fish around oil platforms.

Spotted Seatrout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Spotted Seatrout in Louisiana?

topwater plugs (early morning and overcast conditions), suspending twitchbaits like Paul Brown Corky and MirrOlure, soft plastics (Z-Man paddle tails, shrimp imitations), and popping cork rigs with live or artificial shrimp.

When is the best time to fish for Spotted Seatrout in Louisiana?

Spring (March-April) features scattered, transitioning fish that are challenging but rewarding when seagulls indicate feeding activity. Summer (April-August) provides the most consistent action during spawning season - fish early morning before 9-10am to beat the heat, targeting saltier outside waters.

How do you catch Spotted Seatrout in Louisiana?

Popping corks excel in shallow areas, while jigs work well in deeper channels and around oil platforms. Use topwater plugs during early morning and overcast conditions. Fish structure with moving water.

What do Spotted Seatrout eat?

They're schooling fish that feed voraciously on shrimp, crabs, mullet, anchovies, croakers, and other baitfish. Small trout eat primarily shrimp and crustaceans, while larger trout shift to a fish-heavy diet, particularly favoring mullet.

Where do Spotted Seatrout live in Louisiana?

They inhabit Louisiana's entire coastal zone from nearly-fresh blackwater ponds to full saltwater, thriving in the state's extensive estuarine system that provides ideal brackish conditions. Speckled trout are non-migratory, staying within the estuary where they were born.

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