WikiCatch
Smooth puffer
Lagocephalus laevigatus
Overview
Lagocephalus laevigatus, known as the smooth puffer, is a species of pufferfish in the family Tetraodontidae. It is native to the Western Atlantic, where it ranges from New England to Argentina, as well as the Eastern Atlantic, where it ranges from Mauritania to Namibia. Adults of the species are pelagic and found near continental margins, whereas juveniles are usually found closer to shore or offshore banks, with both occurring either alone or in small, loose groups. It occurs at a depth range of 10 to 180 m over sandy or muddy bottoms and is a very large pufferfish, reaching 100 cm in total length. The species feeds on fish and shrimp and can be dangerously toxic if ingested. It is known to be oviparous. It is sometimes confused with the related species Lagocephalus inermis which is native to the Indo-Pacific.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Shrimp
Peeled or unpeeled, live or dead.
- Squid
Strips or whole, fresh or frozen.
- Cut Fish
Chunks of oily fish like mullet or menhaden.
- Crabs
Small crabs, live or cut in half.
Artificial Lures
- Savage Gear Panic Prey 135TopwaterBuy
Walk-the-dog action can trigger strikes.
- DOA Shrimp 3"Soft PlasticBuy
Slowly retrieve near the bottom. Natural colors work best.
- Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow F1137CrankbaitBuy
Erratic retrieve mimics fleeing baitfish.
- SpoonsSpoonBuy
Silver or gold spoons with a slow wobble retrieve.
- Berkley Gulp! Sandworm 4"Soft PlasticBuy
Scent helps attract pufferfish.
Techniques
Use a small, strong hook to avoid the pufferfish's teeth, and check your line frequently for abrasion.
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Where to Find Smooth puffer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Smooth puffer?+
Popular baits for Smooth puffer include Shrimp, Squid, Cut Fish, Crabs, Savage Gear Panic Prey 135. Tip: Use a small, strong hook to avoid the pufferfish's teeth, and check your line frequently for abrasion.
Where can I catch Smooth puffer?+
Smooth puffer can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Florida, United States; Paraná, Brazil. WikiCatch lists 15 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Smooth puffer get?+
Smooth puffer (Lagocephalus laevigatus) can reach up to 100 cm in length and 4.9 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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