Atlantic Croaker (Micropogonias undulatus) belongs to the Family Sciaenidae and is closely related to
Black Drum, Silver Perch, Spot and Red Drum. They are commonly found in warm water sounds and estuaries from
Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico. Their name is derived from the predominate croaking sound that it
produces by vibrating its inflated swim bladder.
Croaker are popular with pier and surf fishermen all along the East Coast of the United States. They can
be caught using bloodworms, cut squid, shrimp and crab. The white meat fish is considered a good
tasting panfish that ranges in size from one half to 2 pounds typically. Norman T. Jenkins of Portsmouth
caught a 28 inch long, 8 lbs, 11 oz Atlantic Croaker in 2007 which is the current IGFA world record. (photo below left)
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