Length-frequency distribution and scale samples of spot,Leiostomus xanthurus, were examined from 1955–58 pound-net catches in lower Chesapeake Bay. The scale method of age determination was validated for this sciaenid species. Few spot older than three years were found in the fishery to which they are generally available from April to October. Larger members of the young-of-the-year group may enter the fishery in July. A rapid rate of growth for the first two years is indicated with considerable overlap in sizes by age groups of older fish. Exploratory trawl data for 1956–58 indicated seasonal distribution within the York River system and lower Bay, and annual variations in abundance, particularly that of young-of-the-year fish. A close apparent relation existed between annual recruitment to pound nets and trawl catch-per-unit-effort of young fish. Change of age composition in the pound-net catch and higher than average trawl catches of the 1956 year-class suggest this year-class was produced in dominant numbers.