Generally in nearshore waters over the continental shelf, from the coastline, where it is common on shallow flats, to offshore waters. Adults swim up rivers. Juveniles abundant in brackish estuaries with muddy bottoms, near sandy beaches and on seagrass beds, entering lagoons and lower courses of rivers. They form fast-moving schools, although larger fish may be solitary. They feed on smaller fish, shrimp, and other invertebrates. Often grunts or croaks are heard when caught. Eggs are found out in the open ocean (pelagic).