Species guide
How to catch Atlantic spadefish
Chaetodipterus faber
The Atlantic spadefish is a striking, laterally compressed fish known for its deep, short body shape and distinctive vertical stripes. Commonly found in large schools, it inhabits shallow coastal waters and feeds primarily on various small benthic invertebrates and plankton. Juveniles exhibit a black coloration and often blend in with debris or mangrove pods in estuaries.
Where they live
Found mainly in shallow coastal waters including mangroves, sandy beaches, wrecks, and harbors of the North American Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico. Juveniles occupy estuaries and very shallow waters.
Typical size
Up to about 91 cm
What they eat
- small crustaceans
- mollusks
- annelid worms
- cnidarians
- plankton
Best baits
- shrimp
- small crustaceans
- worms
- squid strips
Best lures
- small jigs
- soft plastic baits
- light spoons
- small plugs
How to fish for them
- light tackle angling
- bottom fishing near structures
- casting around wrecks and mangroves
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