WikiCatch
Japanese eel

Japanese eel

Anguilla japonica

Family
Anguillidae
Max Length
150 cm
Max Weight
1.9 kg
IUCN Status
EN
Water Type
saltwater, freshwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
1

Overview

The Japanese eel is a species of anguillid eel found in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China, and Vietnam, as well as the northern Philippines. Like all the eels of the genus Anguilla and the family Anguillidae, it is catadromous, meaning it spawns in the sea but lives parts of its life in freshwater. This food in Japan is called unagi; they are an essential part of the food culture, with many restaurants serving grilled eel called kabayaki. However, presumably due to a combination of overfishing and habitat loss or changing water conditions in the ocean interfering with spawning and the transport of their leptocephali this species is endangered.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Earthworms

    A classic and readily available bait.

  • Shrimp

    Effective in both freshwater and brackish areas.

  • Small Fish

    Use native minnows when possible.

  • Chicken Liver

    Strong scent attracts eels in murky water.

  • Bloodworms

    Highly attractive to eels.

Artificial Lures

  • Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow F1147Crankbait

    Mimics baitfish, good for casting.

    Buy
  • Bass Pro Shops Tender TubeSoft Plastic

    Eel-like action, good for jigging.

    Buy
  • Mepps Aglia Long CastSpinner

    Flash attracts attention in dark waters.

    Buy
  • Daiwa Silver Creek SpoonSpoon

    Erratic action entices strikes.

    Buy
  • Berkley Gulp! Alive! NightcrawlerSoft Plastic

    Scent is highly effective in low light.

    Buy

Techniques

Fish near the bottom in areas with structure like rocks or submerged vegetation, as eels are bottom dwellers and ambush predators.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Japanese eel?+

Popular baits for Japanese eel include Earthworms, Shrimp, Small Fish, Chicken Liver, Bloodworms. Tip: Fish near the bottom in areas with structure like rocks or submerged vegetation, as eels are bottom dwellers and ambush predators.

How big do Japanese eel get?+

Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) can reach up to 150 cm in length and 1.9 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is EN.

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