Also known as: Piggy, Piggy Perch, Grunt
Pigfish are characterized by irregular barring on the cheeks, a mottled appearance, or indistinct, irregular vertical bars. Often mistaken for pinfish, its dorsal spines are smaller, the eye is smaller and the distance from eye to mouth is greater. Pigfish are abundant and rarely reach more than 8 inches in length. Texas record is 1.04 pounds, 12.5 inches, 1998.
Life History: Adults spawn in the Gulf and the young grow up in the bays, living in grassy areas or on shoals. They feed primarily on small crustaceans and mollusks, but also will take small fragments of other food.
Distribution: Pigfish are found throughout the Gulf.
Other: The name pigfish was probably derived from the chattering noises they make when caught. Like other members of the grunt family, a pigfish makes a grunting sound by rubbing the teeth in their throat together. By night, pigfish use their throat teeth to grind up shellfish and small bits of other food.
Habitat & Range
Adults live primarily in bays in grassy areas or on slopes of channels.
Can be caught around docks and piers using peeled shrimp.
Life History
Adults spawn in the Gulf and the young grow up in the bays, living in grassy areas or on shoals. They feed primarily on small crustaceans and mollusks, but also will take small fragments of other food.
License & Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 5-day, and annual). Freshwater and saltwater endorsements may be required for certain waters. Purchase online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Life History
Adults spawn in the Gulf and the young grow up in the bays, living in grassy areas or on shoals. They feed primarily on small crustaceans and mollusks, but also will take small fragments of other food.
Habitat
Adults live primarily in bays in grassy areas or on slopes of channels. Can be caught around docks and piers using peeled shrimp.
Fishing Tips
Pigfish will take small live bait or cut bait, especially along the slopes of channels using cut bait on bottom rigs.
Interesting Facts
Although the flesh is edible, most pigfish are used as excellent live bait for larger fish such as spotted seatrout.
Distribution
Pigfish are found throughout the Gulf.
Regulations
Texas fishing regulations apply to Pigfish. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some species have catch-and-release only restrictions or special tournament regulations. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual for current regulations specific to your fishing location. Possession limits in Texas are twice the daily bag limit unless otherwise noted.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-reside | Link |
