The Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus) is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Sciaenidae. It is commonly found in coastal waters in the western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Massachusetts to Mexico and including the northern half of the Caribbean Sea. The name "croaker" is descriptive of the noise the fish makes by vibrating strong muscles against its swim bladder, which acts as a resonating chamber much like a ball. The Atlantic croaker is the loudest of the drum family, and during spawning season (August to October), croakers turn a deep golden color, from which comes the name golden croaker.
The Atlantic croaker is a very important commercial fish, with millions of pounds caught and sold every year in the United States and exported to other countries. The annual catch of croaker has declined in the past few years, probably due to overfishing. The best times for fishing for Atlantic croaker are from summer into the fall, and they are easily caught on bait (dead shrimp) when fishing on the bottom. Small Atlantic croaker are used as a bait fish to catch other fish, especially spotted seatrout and crabs.
The meat of the Atlantic croaker has delicate flakes and a moderate, briny flavor. However, it is a bony fish, so it may not be the best choice for a first date.
