Elongate cylindrical bodied fish with truncate tail with rounded edges. Small dark spots on head and gill plates. Singular dark cheek stripe. First dorsal fin is dark, with no ocellated spots. A series of white or pale spots along dark lateral line. Modified pelvic fin rays reach beyond the anus. Small barbel on chin.
Average Maximum Size:
35 cm (14 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Southern Hake lacks the ocellated dorsal fin spot that the Spotted Hake possess. The Spotted Hake's tail is more truncate than rounded. Spotted Hake may have more than one diagonal stripe on their head.
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
Range:
North Carolina to Northern Gulf of Mexico
Habitat:
Shallow coastal waters with sandy and muddy bottoms.
