The smooth puffer is relatively easy to catch but can be dangerous to eat. They can be found in the warm waters of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. The best methods for catching them include bottom fishing, drift fishing and still fishing.
Habitat: Ocean, Coastal Waters
How to identify Smooth Puffer
Smooth puffers are often referred to as “smooth-backed blowfish.” These fish have tiny, sandpaper-like spines covering their entire underside. They have dark green/gray coloring on their backs, yellow sides, and white abdomens. Their prominent eyes are located high up on their heads. Young smooth puffers have 3-4 brown markings on their backs. These fish can grow up to three feet long, and when threatened, can blow themselves up to twice their normal size. They have a pair of fused frontal teeth in their mouths that they use to crush and cut their food.
Where to catch Smooth Puffer
You won’t find smooth puffers in cold waters or in the temperate zone because they are warm-water, tropical fish. They can be found off the coast of Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico. They prefer to hang out around inshore and nearshore areas with silty bottoms.
The following are habitats where you can catch Smooth Puffer:
How to catch Smooth Puffer
Smooth puffers are known for puffing themselves as a means of defending themselves. They are risky to eat because, if not prepared correctly, the toxin tetrodotoxin contained in these fish can be fatal. Smooth puffers are pretty easy to catch, and they don’t require much skill. The best methods for catching them are bottom fishing, drift fishing, and still fishing. Anglers who wish to target these fish are advised to use light tackle. Some good options include a low test line, a #8 long-shank hook, and a split-shot weight that is positioned just above the hook. Look for smooth puffers near structures in shallow, grassy flats with sandy or rocky bottoms.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Smooth Puffer:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Smooth Puffer
The best bait to use for catching smooth puffers is shelled shrimp.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Smooth Puffer:
