SNAPPER, YELLOWTAIL
The Yellowtail Snapper, is an abundant species of snapper native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This species is mostly found around coral reefs, but may be found in other habitats. They occur at depths of from near the surface to 180 metres (590 ft), though mostly between 10 and 70 metres (33 and 230 ft).
The scientific name of the Yellowtail Snapper roughly translates to "swift-swimming golden fish". The coloration is characterized by a prominent lateral yellow stripe originating on the snout, widening posteriorly, and covering the caudal fin. The back and upper sides are olive to bluish with yellow irregular spots. The belly and lower sides have narrow longitudinal stripes that are pale red to yellow, and the fins are yellowish.
Yellowtail Snapper are typically caught in 30–120 feet of water on and around reefs and other structure. The most common method of catching them is with hook and line, and the use of frozen chum to attract the fish. The chum is typically a five-pound block of leftover ground fish parts. The chum is placed into a mesh bag or metal basket in the water, and as the chum slowly melts, small pieces of fish will drift out and down towards the bottom, where the yellowtails typically feed. The chum attracts the fish, and keeps them near the boat for extended periods of time, as well.
Light tackle is the generally accepted means of catching Yellowtail Snapper. Typically, the fish are relatively wary of higher-test or thicker line, and larger hooks. Most fish caught by anglers range from eight inches to 14 inches, although catches to 16 inches are not uncommon. Catches larger than 17 inches are uncommon, and catches over 20 inches are considered rare. Yellowtail Snapper can be caught on a variety of baits, including both live and frozen shrimp, squid, and a variety of live and frozen minnows or smaller baitfish. They can be caught on artificial baits and lures, but live or frozen bait is preferred. Yellowtail Snappers tend to be wary fish, and the appearance of larger predators, such as dolphins or sharks, can scare off schools until the offender leaves the area.
Internationally
They are native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Although they have been found as far north as Massachusetts, their normal range is along Florida south to the West Indies and Brazil.