Description: Smallest of the snooks; profile slightly concave; prominent lateral line outlined in black (not solid), extends through caudal fin; color yellow-green to brown-green above, silvery below; giant second anal spine, hence the name; largest scales of all snook.
Similar Fish: Other Centropomus.
Where Found: Occurs in inshore estuarine habitats from south Florida as far north on east coast as St. Lucie River.
Size: Usually less than 1 pound (12 inches).
Remarks: Full-grown adults are less than 12 inches long; mangrove shoreline habitats serve as nursery areas for young; rare on Florida’s west coast; prefers only slightly brackish or fresh water.