Species guide

How to catch Atlantic anchoveta

Cetengraulis edentulus

Stylized 2D illustration of Atlantic anchoveta
brackishsaltwaterEngraulidae

The Atlantic anchoveta is a small, schooling fish found in inshore and brackish waters. It is known for tolerating a wide range of salinities and feeding by filtering plankton from the water. This species plays a vital role in coastal ecosystems and is often found in large schools.

Where they live

Found in the Atlantic and Caribbean regions, this fish inhabits shallow coastal waters, lagoons, estuaries, and brackish zones with salinity between 10 and 31 ppt.

Typical size

Up to about 21 cm

What they eat

  • plankton
  • microscopic algae
  • diatoms

Best baits

  • small pieces of shrimp
  • fish flakes
  • plankton-based bait

Best lures

  • tiny jigs
  • micro spoons
  • small soft plastics

How to fish for them

  • light spinning
  • float fishing
  • cast netting
  • filleting small live bait

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How to catch Atlantic anchoveta | Bobbr