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Gulf butterfish

Peprilus burti

Gulf butterfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Gulf butterfish (Peprilus burti) is a small, silvery marine fish found in the Gulf of Mexico. It is popular among light‑tackle anglers for its quick, surface‑skimming runs and mild, flaky flesh that is often served fried or baked.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Stromateidae

Max Size

25 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

2-275m

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Late spring through early fall (May‑September), with peak activity in summer months

Best Time

Early morning and late evening when the fish rise to the surface to feed

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Gulf butterfish

  • Use ultralight tackle (5‑6 ft rod, 4‑6 lb test line) to feel the subtle takes
  • Troll or cast small silver spoons or soft plastic jigs near structure
  • Bait with live shrimp, pilchards, or anchovies for best attraction
  • Fish during low light periods and keep a steady, slow retrieve to mimic prey

Top Fishing Locations for Gulf butterfish

Galveston Bay, Texas

USA
beginner78% Very Common

Shallow bays and estuaries with abundant baitfish, making Gulf butterfish abundant year-round.

Best: April-September

Florida Keys, Florida

USA
intermediate72% Very Common

Clear waters around the reef flats attract schools of butterfish; popular weekend trips for light tackle anglers.

Best: May-October

Yucatán Peninsula – Progreso, Mexico

Mexico
beginner68% Common

Sandy-bottom lagoons near the Gulf of Mexico host large aggregations during the summer run.

Best: June-August

Turneffe Atoll, Belize

Belize
expert55% Common

Remote atoll with healthy reef ecosystems; butterfish gather around the outer reef during the rainy season.

Best: July-September

Exuma Cays, Bahamas

Bahamas
intermediate70% Very Common

Clear, warm currents bring plankton, drawing butterfish to the surface; often targeted by charter boats.

Best: May-October

Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba

Cuba
intermediate45% Occasional

Sandy shoals off the southern coast where butterfish feed at night; best fished with light lures.

Best: June-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Gulf butterfish

Recommended Equipment

Rod5‑6 ft ultralight spinning rod, fast action
Line4‑6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall silver spoon, micro jig, or soft plastic minnow
TechniqueLight trolling or casting near surface structures, slow steady retrieve

Best bait: Live shrimp, pilchard or anchovy