Atlantic croakers, more popularly known as hardheads, are some of the more popular fish species in Maryland's Chesapeake Bay during the summer months. These fish are found up and down the Atlantic coast, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico, South America, and Asia. Croakers generally stay in warmer, more tropical waters. Croakers range between 9 and 18 inches in length, and anywhere from 1 to 3 pounds. Croakers are named for the croaking sound that they make. According to popular theory, this noise comes from a set of loose bones inside the head. However, these bones do not exist. The noise actually results from the abdominal muscles beating against the swim bladder.