weakfish Species Facts
Science Name: Cynoscion regalis
Other Names: gray trout, squeteague, common sea trout, summer trout, tide runner
Ideal Temp: 55 to 70
World Record: 19 lbs. 2 ounces, NY
Environment: coast
Techniques: ligth tackle, bottom fishing
Description

Weakfish (Cynoscion regalis), also known as gray trout, occur from Nova Scotia to Florida and are most abundant from North Carolina through Long Island. Adult weakfish are often found near the periphery of eelgrass beds, where they primarily feed on shrimp, larger zooplankton, crabs, other crustaceans and small fish. In the estuary, adult weakfish occur in schools and frequent shallow sandy bottom areas with salinities above 10 percent. Estuaries provide feeding areas and spawning grounds for adult weakfish and are as important as nursery areas are for juveniles.

Where found: an Atlantic coast fish, possibly found in the extreme southeastern Gulf; adults move INSHORE and north during warm months inhabiting the surf, inlets, bays, channels and estuaries; adults move OFFSHORE and south during cold months; juveniles inhabit estuaries which serve as nurseries.