Range: A tropical species, Snook are found on the larger islands of the Caribbean, including Cuba, Puerto Rico and Hispaniola. They are absent from the Bahamas, except for an occasional straggler in Bimini. In Florida, they are largely confined to about the lower half of the Peninsula. However, a few successive years without damaging freezes will send them spreading northward, particularly on the Atlantic Coast, where they have been fishable even around Jacksonville at times. On the Gulf side, the Homosassa River seems to be the limit of their range, although wandering individuals are caught in the Panhandle on occasion. Even on the lower Gulf Coast, occasional freezes kill many Snook Serious Kills are farless common on the Atlantic side, where deeper, warmer water is closer at hand to provide a haven.

DESCRIPTION: The Snook has a most distinctive body shape, featuring a tapered head and snout, underslung lower jaw, large fins and, most distinctive of all, a prominent black strip running the full length of the lateral line. The stripe is present in all species of the Snook. Coloration is greatly dark gray to black on the dorsal surface, shading to silvery on the sides. The fins are yellowish. As with many inshore fish, the coloration may vary with season and habitat. Snook of inside waters usually have  darker sides.

SIZE: Generally, the size range is form 3 to 15 pound. Snook weighing 20 to 30 pounds are not unusual on either coast.

FOOD VALUE: Snook are proportionately very thick through the shoulders, and their filiets represent a higher portion of total weight than most other fish.

TACKLE AND BAIT: Even though spinning and bait casting tackle are most used light saltwater boat rods get plenty of action, The best is Live Bait Captain Mike Maters Rule......