Black Sea Bass
Life Cycle: Black Sea Bass mature at about 7.5″. They are protogynous hermaphrodites meaning that they switch from female to male when they reach 9″ to 13″. They spawn from midMay to the end of June. Black Sea Bass are a member of the grouper family.
Migration: Mature fish move into 20 to 80 feet of water on natural hard bottoms like limestone. Juveniles are found near man-made structures such a jetties and bridge abutments. Most of the nearshore catches are undersized.
Fishing Tips: Black Sea Bass eat shrimp, minnows, small crabs and cut bait. Bottom fish near the St Marys Entrance jetty. Future offshore they are found on various reefs. Bottom fishing is the normal technique.
Food Value: Excellent.
Regulations: A dehooking device is required.
7 per day 13″ with pinched tail (TL)
State record 5 lbs 1 oz.
No closed season