Fish Id: A Guide To East Coast Fishes
Triggerfish, Gray
(Family Balistidae)
Balistes capriscus
Recognised by the trigger-shaped dorsal fin (spiny). Found near rocks, reefs, wrecks, generally around 70' depth. Small but powerful mouth used for breaking clams/crabs. Species of Atlantic Triggerfish are found on both East and West Coasts from tropical to temperate waters, including offshore NJ.
Edible, but very difficult to fillet due to tough hide...take your time. Meat is white and somewhat like red snapper.
Sample
Courtesy of Richie Ciecwisz
Nice underwater photo: http://www.graysreef.nos.noaa.gov/
Back To Miscellaneous Fishes Section or
Return to FishGuide | FishingPage