Atlantic Croaker Fishing Charters

Atlantic Croaker is a plentiful bottom fish found on party boats along the Mid-Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Named for the croaking sound they make using their swim bladder, these cooperative feeders provide consistent action and good eating.

Party boats catch Croaker over sandy and muddy bottoms in bays, sounds, and nearshore waters in depths of 5 to 40 feet. Pieces of squid, bloodworm, shrimp, or cut bait fished on bottom rigs produce steady bites. Croaker travel in large schools, so once you find them, the action is continuous.

Croaker are small but spirited fighters that provide fun on light tackle. Most fish run 0.5 to 2 pounds, with larger "bull" croaker reaching 3 to 4 pounds. They bend the rod with quick head shakes and short runs that keep things interesting, especially for young anglers.

The eating quality is very good. Croaker has firm, white flesh with a mild, sweet flavor. Pan-fried whole croaker is a traditional preparation throughout the Mid-Atlantic, and the fillets are good baked or blackened. Croaker is an underappreciated fish that delivers at the table.