Caught a trophy American Eel Offshore in Riviera

The American Eel (Anguilla rostrata) belongs to the Anguillidae family within the Anguilliformes order. These fascinating creatures feature a snake-like body covered with a protective mucus layer that gives them their characteristic slimy appearance. In Riviera Beach waters this November, these eels make for an interesting catch during offshore charters, showing up regularly for anglers using specific bottom fishing techniques.

American Eel Overview

American Eels are remarkable fish with a unique life cycle that takes them from saltwater to freshwater and back again. Highly valued by both recreational and commercial fishers, these eels demonstrate remarkable adaptability across different water environments, making them an occasionally surprising catch during offshore fishing charters in Florida.

American Eel Habitat and Distribution

These eels inhabit a variety of water bodies including inland waterways, nearshore environments, and shallow coastal waters. They're typically found along the Atlantic coastline from Greenland to Brazil, with strong populations throughout Florida's coastal and inland waterways. Around Riviera Beach, they can be encountered in estuaries, rivers that flow into the ocean, and occasionally offshore when migrating.

American Eel Size and Weight

Typical specimens measure between 30-60 inches in length, with weights ranging from 8-17 pounds. Females generally grow larger than males, with some exceptional specimens reaching even greater sizes. The size varies significantly depending on their life stage, with fully mature adults representing the largest phase of their development.

American Eel Diet and Behavior

American Eels are primarily nocturnal predators with a diverse diet including small fish, crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and other aquatic invertebrates. They hunt primarily by scent rather than sight, using their keen sense of smell to locate prey. During daylight hours, they often remain hidden in muddy bottoms, under rocks, or within other available structure, emerging at night to feed.

American Eel Spawning Season

American Eels have a fascinating reproductive cycle, spawning in the Sargasso Sea in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean. Adult eels migrate from freshwater to the ocean to breed, with spawning occurring primarily in winter and early spring. After spawning, the adults die, while their offspring begin an incredible journey back to coastal and freshwater habitats.

American Eel Fishing Techniques

When targeting American Eels, bottom fishing with natural baits proves most effective. Nightcrawlers, cut fish, shrimp, or crab pieces on a simple bottom rig with medium-heavy tackle works well. In November, anglers around Riviera Beach might encounter them during bottom fishing sessions near estuary mouths or in deeper channels. Fish during early morning or evening hours for best results, as these periods align with their more active feeding times.

American Eel Is It Good to Eat?

American Eel is considered a delicacy in many culinary traditions, particularly in Asian cuisine where it's often prepared grilled (unagi) or in stews. The meat has a firm texture with a rich, distinctive flavor that's often described as sweet and savory. They're nutritionally valuable, containing high levels of vitamin D, protein, and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Proper cleaning is essential as the blood contains toxins that must be removed before cooking.

American Eel Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for American Eel?

A: Natural baits like nightcrawlers, cut fish, shrimp, and crab pieces are most effective. American Eels are scent-oriented predators, so fresh, aromatic baits typically produce the best results when bottom fishing.

Q: Where can I find American Eels near Riviera Beach?

A: American Eels can be found in estuaries, river mouths, and occasionally offshore during migration periods around Riviera Beach. They prefer areas with muddy bottoms, structure, or vegetation where they can hide during daylight hours.

Q: Is American Eel good to eat?

A: Yes, American Eel is considered delicious in many culinary traditions. The meat has a firm texture and rich flavor, making it popular in various dishes, particularly in Asian cuisine where it's highly prized.

Q: When is the best time to catch American Eel?

A: The best times are during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours when they're most active. Seasonally, spring and fall often produce the best results, though they can be caught year-round in Florida waters.

Q: Are American Eels difficult to handle when caught?

A: Yes, their slippery, muscular bodies make them challenging to handle. Anglers should use gloves and exercise caution, as their skin is covered in protective mucus and they can be quite strong when attempting to escape.

Q: Do American Eels have any special conservation status?

A: While not endangered, American Eel populations have declined in parts of their range due to habitat loss, dams blocking migration routes, and commercial harvesting. Always check local fishing regulations before targeting or keeping American Eels.