Physical description:

Biological description:

Jolthead porgy occur in the Atlantic from Rhode Island and Bermuda, southward to Brazil, including the northern Gulf of Mexico. This species inhabits coastal waters from 3 to more than 200 m (10–656 ft) in depth. It can be found on vegetated sand bottoms, but occurs more frequently on coral and hard bottom. Large adults are usually solitary. Maximum reported size is 76.0 cm (30.1 in) FL (male) and 10.6 kg (23.4 lbs). Crabs and mollusks constitute its primary prey items.

South Atlantic Federal Regulations

(For areas three-200 miles off the coasts of NC, SC, GA, and East Florida)

Commercial:

Limited access permit required.

• Gear restrictions apply.

Recreational:

• Recreational retention limits apply.
• Gear restrictions apply.