Saltwater Fish of Connecticut
Smooth Puffer
Lagocephalus laevigatus
🏆 Connecticut State Record
Harvest9 lb 12 oz · 25.25"Robert M. Mielke · 2019 · Six Mile Reef
Catch & Release26.25"Al Zuppe · 2023 · New London
All Connecticut state records →
Also called: Puffer
Identification
Large, smooth-skinned puffer, greenish gray above and white below.
Habitat
Warm water; a rare summer visitor.
Behavior
Can inflate itself; has sharp, beak-like teeth that cut lines.
How to Catch
Usually hooked on baits meant for other fish. Toxic — do not eat.
Notes
Rare visitor to Connecticut — listed in CT DEEP’s exotic marine species record category.