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Scup

Scup

Scup are migratory schooling fish found throughout New York's coastal waters from Long Island Sound to the Atlantic Ocean.

These laterally compressed panfish are opportunistic bottom feeders that exhibit strong seasonal migration patterns, overwintering in offshore waters south of New Jersey and returning to New York's inshore waters in spring when temperatures rise above 45°F.

Scientific Name: Stenotomus chrysops

Also known as porgy

Physical Characteristics:

These laterally compressed panfish average 9-12 inches but can exceed 20 inches and weigh up to 4 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Scup are found throughout New York's coastal waters from Long Island Sound to the Atlantic Ocean.

Key Locations

Productive locations include Long Island Sound, Jamaica Bay, Great South Bay, Peconic Bay, and coastal areas around jetties and piers throughout Long Island. In New York waters, they're abundant around Long Island's north and south shores, in estuaries, and coastal bays.

Specific Spots

Scup are most frequently encountered in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, mussel beds, seagrass beds, and around structures like jetties, piers, artificial reefs, and rocky ledges. Fish rocky or cobble bottoms when possible, and avoid areas with heavy boat traffic.

Scup FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Scup in New York?

Top baits include sandworms (most effective), clams, squid strips, and clam necks. Squid stays on hooks better for long casts but worms and clams generate more bites. Small bucktails (1/8-1/4 ounce) on light tackle create exciting fishing and help select keeper-sized fish.

When is the best time to fish for Scup in New York?

Target scup in New York during spring through fall, with the best action from May through September when they move inshore. Early season (late May-early June) produces the largest fish before they disperse after spawning.

How do you catch Scup in New York?

A productive technique involves using clam on the bottom hook to attract fish and squid on the top hook to catch larger specimens. Chumming with biodegradable containers can be effective from shore positions.

What do Scup eat?

Scup are opportunistic bottom feeders consuming polychaete worms, small crustaceans (amphipods, crabs, shrimp), mollusks, clams, mussels, small squid, jellyfish, fish eggs, larvae, and small fish.

Where do Scup live in New York?

Scup are found throughout New York's coastal waters from Long Island Sound to the Atlantic Ocean.

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