CATFISH (GAFFTOPSAIL)

Pomatomus saltatrix

English: Gafftop, seacat.
Spanish: barbo

Gafftopsail catfish are named for the dorsal fin that rises from their back like a sail. A close look reveals the sharp spines that support the dorsal, or back, fin and the pectoral fins on the fish's sides. These spines are not only sharp, they also have a coating of toxic slime. 

Average size is about 2.5 pounds with larger fish caught in the fall. Maximum size is about 2 feet in length and 8 pounds in weight.

Live shrimp, small crabs and small live pinfish are good natural baits. Artificial worms and spoons also work well. The fish will feed throughout the water column, but baits fished near the bottom work best.

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