Saltwater Fish of Connecticut
Gray Triggerfish
Balistes capriscus
🏆 Connecticut State Record
Harvest6 lb 1.5 oz · 19"Keith Mehmet · 2016 · Pine Island, Groton
Catch & Release19.25"Christopher Otis · 2013 · Niantic Bay
All Connecticut state records →
Also called: Triggerfish
Identification
Flat, gray, tough-skinned fish with a locking first dorsal spine and a small mouth with strong teeth.
Habitat
Rock piles, jetties and wrecks in late summer and fall.
Behavior
Nibbles baits and crushes shellfish; very good at stealing bait.
How to Catch
Small hooks with squid or clam pieces near rocky structure.
Notes
Rare visitor to Connecticut — listed in CT DEEP’s exotic marine species record category.