Fish Identification Photos: Paloma Pompano, Trachinotus paitensis: The Paloma Pompano is one of the rarer species in Mexican waters and is a member of the Carangidae or Jack Family.

The Paloma Pompano is characterized by a silver, slender body that is darker on the upper back and whiter on the bottom.

It has a rounded snout, a straight lateral line and no blotch on the pectoral fin base.

This species can be easily confused with the Silver Pompano, Trachinotus kennedyi (which has a rounded head and a black blotch on the pectoral fin base).

The Paloma Pompano is pelagic and found in all Mexican waters including around the oceanic islands. It is found in the first 75 feet of the water column over sandy bottoms.

The Paloma Pompano is reported to reach a length of 20 inches but is normally in the 10 to 14 inch range.

It is viewed by locals to be excellent table fare.

Paloma Pompano, Trachinotus paitensis: Caught off the beach at Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, in 68-degree water, in March 2008, on cut squid bait, utilizing traditional surf gear. Size approximately 18 inches and weight 4 pounds. Description and photo courtesy of John Snow. Paloma Pompano, Trachinotus paitensis: Caught from shore in the last hour of daylight, in December 2001, in 76-degree water, outside the breaker line in 20 to 30-foot water, utilizing 15-pound test with a two dropper loop rig, no swivels, 1.5-ounce bank sinker, and Mustad 92553 hooks, size #4, on cut squid at Km. 14 (Twin Dolphins), between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur., Mexico. Size approximately 10 inches and 1 pound. Viewed by locals as excellent table fare. Description courtesy John Snow. Picture courtesy Carol Snow.