Tag: Fishing tips

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), porgies are part of the widespread Sparidae family, which includes over 100 species of marine fish. This diverse family has led to many fish being commonly known as a porgy across different regions, most notably the scup in the United States and various sea bream species in Europe.

While many fish species specialize in one feeding method, whiting fish display a remarkable dietary versatility that often leads to confusion. The question, 'Is whiting fish considered a bottom feeder?' reveals a more complex reality, as these fish frequently forage on the seabed for crustaceans and worms, but also prey on small fish in the water column.

According to studies conducted in Louisiana and Mississippi, approximately 40% of speckled trout—a close relative of redfish—are hosts to a type of parasitic tapeworm. While this sounds alarming, the crucial question for consumers is: does red fish have parasites, and if so, is it safe to eat?.

With a world-record red ear sunfish weighing over 6 pounds caught in 2014, these large panfish are highly sought after by anglers. The most common name for the red ear sunfish is "shellcracker," a nickname that directly relates to its unique feeding habits. This freshwater fish, scientifically known as *Lepomis microlophus*, is also called chinquapin or stumpknocker in certain regions.

With more than 2,200 species worldwide, the catfish is one of the most diverse groups of fish, but one common misconception persists: that they are exclusively bottom feeders. The reality is far more complex, with their diets and feeding zones varying significantly across different species and environments.

According to NOAA Fisheries, while most fish encountered by anglers are edible, the organs of some species are always poisonous, and others can become toxic due to their diet. This crucial distinction answers the question, 'are all fish you catch edible?', with a firm, safety-conscious negative.

Over 90% of trophy fish are released back into the water, making accurate weight estimation without a scale crucial for anglers. Knowing how to estimate salmon weight using simple measurements like length and girth allows you to get a reliable figure while prioritizing the fish's safety during catch and release.