Also known as: Rockfish, Buoyfish, Black Perch,
Game fish - see bag & size limits Tripletails are odd-looking, deep-bodied fish with the soft rays of the dorsal and anal fins set well back toward the caudal fin giving it a tri-lobed appearance. Coloration can vary from almost black through reddish-bronze to yellow or mottled. This fish often floats on its side at the water's surface, the coloration and movements resembling that of a dead leaf. They are frequently mistaken for floating debris. Lengths of three feet and weights of 30 to 50 pounds are attained, but normally they range from 5 to 15 pounds.
Life History: Spawning occurs in spring or early summer and the young drift into shallow areas to grow and feed. Food consists of live shrimp, crabs and small fish.
Other: This fish often floats on its side at the water's surface, the coloration and movements resembling that of a dead leaf. They are frequently mistaken for floating debris.
Habitat & Range
Tripletails prefer the mouths of rivers, passes and bays opening into the Gulf displaying some indifference to salinity. They congregate around ship-wrecks, buoys, boats, beacons, pilings, jetties and floating objects.
They gather near pilings, jetties, buoys and other floating objects at the mouths of rivers, passes and bays.
Life History
Spawning occurs in spring or early summer and the young drift into shallow areas to grow and feed. Food consists of live shrimp, crabs and small fish.
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
Spawning occurs in spring or early summer and the young drift into shallow areas to grow and feed. Food consists of live shrimp, crabs and small fish.
Habitat
Tripletails prefer the mouths of rivers, passes and bays opening into the Gulf displaying some indifference to salinity. They congregate around ship-wrecks, buoys, boats, beacons, pilings, jetties and floating objects. They gather near pilings, jetties, buoys and other floating objects at the mouths of rivers, passes and bays.
Fishing Tips
Food consists of live shrimp, crabs and small fish, so similar baits should be used with small hooks.
Regulations
Texas fishing regulations apply to Tripletail. 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 |
