Atlantic Croaker
Atlantic Croaker are among the most common marine fish in South Carolina waters, historically ranking as the 2nd most abundant species in nearshore coastal areas.
They're habitat generalists found throughout South Carolina's estuarine system and nearshore coastal areas.
Scientific Name: Micropogonias undulatus
- Silvery fish with a pinkish-bronze cast have characteristic dark spots forming wavy lines on their sides, 3-5 prominent gill cover spines, and small chin barbels.
- In South Carolina, Atlantic Croaker typically reach maturity at 5.5-7 inches after one year, though recent data shows some fish living up to 7 years in state waters.
Fishing in South Carolina
Lake Marion
Wateree River
Broad River
Saluda River
Lake Murray
Black River
Catawba River
Lynches River
Lake Moultrie
Santee River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found over mud and sandy bottoms, oyster reefs, and live bottoms throughout South Carolina's estuarine system and nearshore coastal areas.
Key Locations
- Charleston area waters, ACE Basin (Ashepoo-Combahee-Edisto rivers), Colonial Lake, Ashley River, Wappoo Creek, Murrells Inlet.
Specific Spots
- Shallow estuarine areas, tidal creeks with mud bottoms, around oyster reefs, bridges, piers, and jetties throughout the coastal zone, nearshore waters from 4-10 feet deep, channels and deep holes, areas with soft mud bottoms containing detritus.
Atlantic Croaker FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Atlantic Croaker in South Carolina?
Most effective natural baits are dead shrimp (the most common bait), bloodworms, clams, squid, cut bait, and small crabs. For artificial lures, try small jigs and spoons.
When is the best time to fish for Atlantic Croaker in South Carolina?
Most productive from May through September when they're abundant in estuarine waters. Spawning periods from October through April with peak activity in late fall and winter should be avoided for fishing to allow successful reproduction.
How do you catch Atlantic Croaker in South Carolina?
Bottom fishing with natural baits works consistently. Fish just before or after high tide in channels and deep holes for best results.
What do Atlantic Croaker eat?
As opportunistic bottom feeders, their diet consists primarily of polychaetes, crustaceans, small crabs, shrimp, mollusks, and benthic invertebrates, with juveniles consuming detritus and some plant material.
Where do Atlantic Croaker live in South Carolina?
Found over mud and sandy bottoms, oyster reefs, and live bottoms throughout South Carolina's estuarine system and nearshore coastal areas.
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