Atlantic Croaker

Atlantic croaker Atlantic croaker can grow to 50 cm (20 in.) and are found throughout the western Atlantic, from Massachusetts to Florida, as well as the Gulf of Mexico.

Atlantic croaker Larval Atlantic croaker begin to enter Chesapeake Bay in August and typically recruit to the survey gear in September.

Atlantic croaker The cod end of the net is full of Atlantic croaker from the lower James River. This tow contained about 500 croaker, far below the record of approximately 13,000 caught in one tow in December 2003.

Atlantic croaker All life stages of Atlantic croaker are caught by the survey gear. On this October day, scientists measured fish ranging from 18 to 218 mm (0.75-8.5 in.).

This species first recruits to the survey gear in September.
The Young-of-Year cutoff values are:
- September: 0-50 mm.
- October: 0-80 mm.
- November: 0-100 mm.
- December: 0-100 mm.
- January: 0-100 mm.
- February: 0-100 mm.
- March: 0-100 mm.
- April: 0-110 mm.
- May: 0-135 mm.
- June: 0-160 mm.
- July: 0-180 mm.
- August: 0-220 mm.
Index months are in bold.
All Bay and river stations are used to calculate the index.

Data collected after the transition to a new vessel and net (June 2015) have been adjusted by a species-specific calibration factor.

Atlantic Croaker Excel file

For more information on how this species is managed please visit the ASMFC website.