Spot
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Spot can be found in the Mid Atlantic region of the U.S, from the Chesapeake Bay to the Carolinas.
They are typically found in estuaries, bays, and inlets near structure such as oyster beds, rocks, and shipwrecks.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Spot are bottom dwellers and are typically found in areas with a sandy or muddy bottom.
They are commonly found near structure such as oyster beds, rocks, and shipwrecks.
They can also be found in areas with a moderate amount of seaweed and eelgrass.
PATTERNS
SPRING
Spot can be caught along the east coast and in the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay as they move into these areas to spawn.
SUMMER
Spot can be found in the Mid Atlantic region of the US waters, as the waters are at their warmest, and the fish are abundant.
FALL
During the fall, Spot can still be caught in the Mid Atlantic region of the US waters as they move back into estuaries, bays, and rivers to over-winter.
WINTER
Spot can still be caught in the Mid Atlantic region of the US waters, but they may be found in deeper waters or in areas near the mouths of estuaries, bays, and rivers.
Bait
Bloodworms, Clam, Shrimp, Crab.
Techniques
Bait Fishing
How: Use live or dead bait such as bloodworms, squid, shrimp, or minnows and fish in areas with sandy bottoms, jetties, or piers. Cast out and let the bait sit on the bottom or use a slow retrieve. Spot are known for their nibbling behavior, so keep an eye on the rod tip for any movement or bites.
Gear: Rods: Light to medium spinning rods. Reels: 2000-3000 size spinning reels. Line: 6-10lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Hooks: Size 4-6 baitholder hooks or circle hooks when using live bait to reduce the risk of gut hooking.
Surf Fishing
How: Look for troughs, sandbars, and other structure near shore. Cast out with bait or lures and let it drift with the current. Vary your retrieve speed and technique until you find what works best.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy surf rods. Reels: 4000-5000 size spinning reels. Line: 10-15lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. Hooks: Size 4-6 baitholder hooks or circle hooks when using live bait to reduce the risk of gut hooking.