Elongate cylindrical bodied fish with truncate tail with slight rounding. Dark spots on head and gill plates. One or two diagonal/horizontal stripes on cheeks. Dark lateral line has series of pale spots. Ocellated spot on first dorsal fin.
Average Maximum Size:
43 cm (17 in)
Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:
Spotted Hake have an ocellated spot on its first dorsal fin. Southern Hake have no spot, though the first dorsal fin may be darkly pigmented.
Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:
Range:
Massachusetts to Florida, NE Gulf of Mexico
Habitat:
Shallow coastal waters with sandy and muddy bottoms. Can be found around submerged reefs and rocks. Juveniles are found in estuaries.
