Sciaenidae of the western Atlantic consist of 21 genera and at least 57 species, and are placed in 11 suprageneric groups: Cynoscion, Larimus, Lonchurus, Menticirrhus, Micropogonias, Nebria, Pogonias, Sciaena, Sciaenops, Stellifer, and Umbrina groups. The phylogenetic relationships of all western Atlantic genera are assessed on the basis of swim bladder, otoliths (sagitta and lapillus), and external morphology. The stellifer group differs from all other western Atlantic sciaenids in having a two-chambered swim bladder and an enlarged lapillus. Phylogenetic and ontogenetic trends of the swim bladder range from a simple carrot-shape, to a more complicated structure with anterior projections and horns, to a very complicated lateral diverticula system. The sagitta is usually oval or elongate in shape. The thickness and the impression of the sulcus on the inner surface of the sagitta are diagnostic among genera. External morphology is adaptive, especially in relation to feeding habits and habitat, but a trend is evident in that closely related genera often have similar body shapes, mouth positions, and other external features. Species of the genus Stellifer are exceptions in having diverse mouth positions and feeding habits. The synopsis section of the paper includes a diagnosis, a primary synonymy, and lists of types of nominal species for each taxonomic category. Four genera and 22 nominal species of New World freshwater sciaenids are also included. Nomenclatural changes in regard to the genus Micropogon (to Micropogonias) and for the species Bairdiella chrysura (to B. chrysoura) is given. A tested key to species and genera of all western Atlantic sciaenids is included. This paper is designed to serve as a basis for further revision of western Atlantic sciaenids.