A Strange TX Fish

Laterally compressed with an elongated, sloping forehead, the lookdown gets its name from just that; this fish looks down at its own nose in a snobbish manner.

Despite their nickname, lookdowns do not hold themselves to a higher standard when it comes to eating lures or bait.

Lookdown can be found on hard, sandy bottoms feeding on small crabs, shrimp and bait fish in the Tropical Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, especially along the Texas coast.

Down on South Padre Island, they can be targeted near deep water docks and pilings. While fishing with Lower Laguna Madre fishing guide, Capt. Brian Barrera, David Teran caught several lookdowns this day using a D.O.A Lures 4” Jerk Bait in Pearl that resembled a small bait fish.

They first put up a fun fight, then leaves you speechless by their extraterrestrial, gleaming appearance. These one-of-a-kind creatures have extremely reflective bodies that are made up of guanine pigments.

These pigments create a mirror-like body that the fish utilizes to reflect light or dim it, depending on the scenario. This form of camouflage helps them hide from predators or to hunt prey. Their lustrous skin leaves me in complete awe each time I have the pleasure of catching one. Lookdowns are always a welcomed visitor on my fishing outings.

On top of their unique facial characteristics and skin, lookdowns also make great table fare.

Accurate filleting skills and a sharp knife are a must for filleting these flat bodied fish.

Kelly Groce

Instagram: @kellyratbones