Fresh wild-caught whole red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus), sold per pound. These snappers are delivered whole with the head on, cleaned and scaled, and ready to prepare at home.

Red snapper is prized for its sweetly mild but distinctive flavor and semi-firm, lean, moist flesh. It is one of the most versatile fish available, suited to grilling, baking, broiling, sautéing, steaming, or poaching. A popular preparation is to stuff and bake the fish whole, which showcases its full flavor. The internal temperature should reach 145°F when fully cooked.

This fish is U.S. wild-caught from the Gulf of America and along the eastern coasts of North America, managed under federal rebuilding plans that ensure sustainable harvest. Red snapper may grow up to 40 inches and 50 pounds, feeding on fish, shrimp, crab, and other sea life in reef and rocky bottom habitats at depths of 30 to 620 feet. Commercial fishermen harvest them primarily using hook-and-line gear, which has minimal habitat impact and reduced bycatch.