Species guide
How to catch Atlantic butterfish
Peprilus triacanthus
brackishsaltwatergame fishStromateidae
The Atlantic butterfish is a sleek, fusiform fish found in large schools across the continental shelf. Juveniles often shelter under floating weeds and jellyfish. They are prized game fish known for their schooling behavior and seasonal depth shifts.
Where they live
Inhabits brackish and saltwater along the North American Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico, schooling over the continental shelf from shallow to deep waters, especially near floating debris for juveniles.
Typical size
Up to about 30 cm
What they eat
- small worms
- ctenophores
- jellyfish
- small gelatinous zooplankton
Best baits
- small worms
- shrimp pieces
- pieces of fish
Best lures
- small soft plastics
- silicone jigs
- light spoons
How to fish for them
- casting near floating weeds or jellyfish
- light jigging over shelf areas
- using small baited hooks
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