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Gafftopsail Catfish

Bagre marinus
Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
Florida
Protected status
None
Also known as
—

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Size
Up to 27 inches (10 pounds)
Similar species
Hardhead catfish, A. felis (has four chin barbels and spines lack filaments) Size: Up to 27 inches (10 pounds)
Appearance
  • Bluish-green back, fading to a silver-white belly
  • Three prominent, sharp spines (one at beginning of dorsal fin and one on each pectoral fin)
  • The three prominent spines have elongated, fleshy filaments
  • Two barbels on chin
  • Barbels at corner of mouth are flattened and very elongated
Habitat
Coastal waters; may enter brackish waters
Behavior
A good food-fish that is usually less common than the hardhead catfish
Additional information
State Record:Recreational RegulationsSee a full list of our Social Media accountsSubscribe:AboutThe CommissionCommission MeetingsWildlife AlertCalendar of EventsOutlook E-mailLimited English Proficiency PlanOffice of Supplier DevelopmentAmericans with DisabilitiesEEO/AAPrivacy StatementSitemap2025 Agency Regulatory Plan
Sources
Image credit: © Diane Rome Peebles