Jim Baugh Outdoors: Black Sea Bass and Trigger Fish

Ben and Jim Baugh fish out of Virginia Beach on the Rudee Angler for Black Sea Bass and Trigger Fish.

Black Sea Bass

Basic Facts

• Scientific Name: Centropristis striata
• Common Size: 1–3 pounds (can reach 8+ lbs)
• Habitat: Reefs, wrecks, rocks, and artificial structures
• Location: Atlantic Ocean from Florida to Massachusetts (very common off Virginia & Eastern Shore)

What They Look Like

• Dark blue-black or gray color
• Large dorsal fin
• Males develop a noticeable hump on their head (called “humpback” sea bass)

What They Eat

• Crabs
• Shrimp
• Small fish
• Squid

Why Anglers Like Them

• Excellent table fare (white, flaky meat)
• Aggressive biters
• Often found in large schools

Fun Fact

• Black Sea Bass change sex — many start as females and become males later in life.

Trigger Fish

Basic Facts

• Scientific Name: Balistes capriscus
• Common Size: 2–5 pounds
• Habitat: Wrecks, reefs, and hard bottom areas
• Location: Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico (increasingly common off Virginia)

What They Look Like

• Gray or olive colored
• Small mouth but very strong teeth
• Tall dorsal fin (“trigger”) they can lock upright

Why They’re Called Triggerfish

• They have a trigger-like dorsal spine
• When raised, it locks in place to wedge themselves into rocks for protection

What They Eat

• Crabs
• Shellfish
• Barnacles
• Sea urchins

Why Anglers Like Them

• One of the best-tasting fish in the ocean
• Firm, sweet white meat
• Strong fighters for their size

Fun Fact

• Triggerfish can bite through hooks and even cut fishing line with their teeth.

About the Author

Wayne Creed

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