When you’re fishing in Georgia’s coastal waters, it’s pretty common to come across Speckled Trout, otherwise, know as Sea Trout. They are an extremely popular sportfish because of the fight and because they make for an excellent meal. Speckled Trout are found year-round on this coast and inhabit areas near oyster rakes and marshy shorelines, making them an easy target by land or boat. During the winter months, another type of trout moves into this water. This type of trout is called the Gray Trout otherwise know as a Weakfish. What is the difference between a Gray Trout and a Speckled Trout?

Learn The Difference Between Weakfish and Speckled Trout Before Casting A Line

While many fishermen are aware of the difference, some are unfamiliar. Its crucial to know how to differentiate between weakfish vs trout because the size regulations are different. You don’t want to take on a hefty fine by confusing grey trout vs. speckled trout.

We have encountered both speckled trout and weakfish mixed together while fishing. Confusion quickly sets in as to one variety of trout instead of the other. So we can tell you first hand that this situation does occur.

What are the characteristics of a Sea Trout/Speckled Trout-

  1. The fish’s body is without scales except for a small row near the base of the dorsal and anal fin.
  2. Each side of the fish is almost silver with black spots covering the upper section from the caudal fin to the dorsal fin. 
  3. The fish is generally narrow and long in shape.
  4. When you open the fish’s mouth, the inside is nearly yellow in color. 

What is the range of a Sea Trout-

Speckled Trout are found both in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. On the east coast they have a range on the northern side up to Maryland and down into Florida. When comparing the speckled trout vs weakfish, the speckled trout has a more robust population in the southern states.

In the Gulf, expect to find Sea Trout from Florida all the way west to Texas. The fishery is excellent in the inshore waters along the Gulf Of Mexico.

How Big Do Speckled Trout Get?

These trout get pretty big. Sea Trout reach a maximum weight of around 18 pounds and grow nearly forty inches in length. The trout on the larger side is most often referred to as “Gator” trout. No matter if you’re targeting sea trout vs speckled trout, the battle is intense when either is hooked.

What Are The Characteristics Of A Gray Trout/Weakfish-

  1. One of the most significant differences between a Weakfish and Sea Trout are the coloration of the anal, pelvic fins, and pectoral fins. Each of these is almost always bright yellow.
  2. They do not have well-defined spots and can vary in color from gold to green, purple, or even blue.
  3.  Most of the spots are found on the upper portions of the fish’s body.
  4. The Gray Trout is long and stocky.

What Is The Range Of A Gray Trout?

On the east coast of the United States, Weakfish, otherwise called grey sea trout, are most frequent between New York and North Carolina. However, they migrate south during the colder months into South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. 

The Gray Trout is not often found in the Gulf of Mexico. When targeting weakfish vs sea trout, focus your attention on the MidAtlantic waters across the United States.

How Big Do Weakfish Grow?

Most are caught in a range between two and four pounds; however, they can found up to eighteen pounds and thirty-six inches in length. The gray trout vs speckled trout grow to a similar size.

With these two types of fish being intermingled with each other, it is necessary to know the difference between them if you plan to harvest trout. The size and bag limits of a Sea Trout versus a Weakfish are different in Georgia. Check the current regulations before you head out for the day. Also, remember to get a Georgia Saltwater Fishing License. If you’re caught without a license, undersized fish, or too many on ice, the fines can be hefty.

Now You Know The Difference Between The Weakfish Vs Speckled Trout

Now that understanding the difference between the sea trout vs weakfish is clear, it’s time to head out on the water and test your luck. These fish are aggressive eaters and are most commonly caught on a live shrimp with a popping cork. Ask around your local bait shop for some reports, tips, and tricks. Catchem up.