It occurs in the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, ranging from Massachusetts to the Yucatan peninsula. Its abundance, willingness to hit natural and artificial baits, and fine eating qualities make the species extremely popular with rod and reel anglers. Sexual maturity is reached at two years of age and eggs number from 100,000 in small fish to more than one million in large females. Spawning occurs inside the bays near grass beds where the newly hatched young find food and shelter.
Recent findings show that fish spawn sometime between dusk and dawn.
Spotted seatrout have a protracted spring and summer spawning period which peaks during May-July. The growth rate of spotted seatrout differs between males and females, with females growing faster. Approximate lengths at various years of age are given in the following table. Before a fishing trip, anglers should be sure to check regulations on bag, possession and size limits. Regulations are based on current information about the fish population and may change often.