Fish of the Week - Snook

If you check the results, for the poll on the right, you will see your overwhelming choice was information about specific fish. Since Snook season opened this week it is fitting to start a new series about "Old Linesides."

There are several snook species in Florida but the only one that matters is the Common Snook, Average Size: 3 to 15 pounds, with 16- to 30-pounders common. Usual maximum is 30 to 40 pounds. State Record: 44 pounds, 3 ounces. World Record: 53 pounds, 10 ounces. Range: A tropical species found on the larger islands of the Caribbean, including Cuba, Puerto Rico and Hispaniola. In Florida, their largest numbers are found in the southern half of the state, but individuals may range as far as Jacksonville on the Atlantic side, and the Panhandle on the Gulf side. Angling Methods: Casting with artificial lures or flies, trolling artificials or live bait and drifting or still fishing with live or dead natural baits.

Anglers are limited to two snook per person per day, with a 27-inch (this is up from the previous 26 inch minimum) to 34-inch slot limit. All fish above or below the slot limit must be released unharmed. Snook season is closed Dec. 15 to Jan. 31, and June, July and August. A $2 snook permit is required when a saltwater fishing license is required.