White Grunt

White Grunt

Haemulon plumieri
White Grunt

Average Weight/Length

Averages 8-10 inches; not too uncommon at 12 inches or slightly larger, especially in deeper waters of the Gulf. Word record 6 pounds, 8 ounces.

Other "Popular" Names for this Fish

Gray Grunt, Key West Grunt, Ronco Arara

Location Habitat

Not choosy; inshore to deep sea. Found in dense aggregations during the day on patch reefs, around coral formations, or on sandy bottoms. Juveniles common in Thalassia testudinum beds. Feeds on crustaceans, small mollusks, and small fishes. Frequently exhibits a territorial 'kissing' display in which two contenders push each other on the lips with their mouths wide open

Biology & Physical Description

Usually from light gray, almost white, to dark gray. Many small blue and yellow lines on head. Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. Side of head has narrow blue stripes; scales above lateral line much larger than those below. Scale rows just below lateral line oblique; color variable but usually light yellowish

Life Cycle & Mating Behavior

Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding

Geographic Species Map (Fishbase.org Map)

Summary of Distribution: Western Atlantic: Chesapeake Bay, through the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean southward to Brazil. Including Antilles

Note: Distribution range colors indicate degree of suitability of habitat which can be interpreted as probabilities of occurrence (fishbase.org)

Sport Fishing Techniques

River Drift

River Drift means to use the....

Trawling

Trawling is when....

Tackle & Baits

Spinning and plug casting outfits and light saltwater gear. Grunt fishermen usually choose cut baits, but the White Grunt also bites willingly on small jigs.

Game Rating

Game Rating : 7.5/10

Game Description :

Strong if hooked on light tackle.

Food Rating

Game Rating : 8/10

Game Description :

Very good, especially as part of the historic Florida dish, "Grits and Grunts." Usually served whole as panfish, but many Grunts are large enough to provide small fillets.