WikiCatch
Roosterfish

Roosterfish

Nematistius pectoralis

Family
Nematistiidae
Max Length
163 cm
Max Weight
51.7 kg
IUCN Status
NE
Water Type
saltwater
Fishing Spots
99

Overview

The roosterfish is a unique species of marine carangiform fish found in the warmer shallow waters of the southeastern Pacific Ocean, from Baja California south to Peru. Roosterfish are a popular sport fish for being strong fighters. They are also important targets of local artisanal and subsistence fisheries. It is the only species in the genus Nematistius, the family Nematistiidae, and the suborder Nematistioidei. Their name comes from the having a "rooster comb" or seven long spines on the dorsal fin. Roosterfish can reach over 1.6 m in length and over 50 kg (110 lb) in weight. Despite being a very popular sport fish, Roosterfish are an understudied species.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Blue Runners

    Excellent for trolling or slow-trolling.

  • Mullet

    Can be used live or as cut bait.

  • Sardines

    Effective when chumming.

  • Goggle Eyes

    Good live bait choice for deep water.

  • Herring

    Use whole or cut into chunks.

Artificial Lures

  • Yo-Zuri Hydro Minnow LCTrolling Lure

    Durable lure, works well at high speeds.

    Buy
  • Rapala X-Rap Magnum 20Trolling Lure

    Great for targeting deeper fish.

    Buy
  • Daiwa Saltiga SliderPopper

    Creates a lot of commotion, draws strikes.

    Buy
  • Shimano Coltsniper JerkbaitJerkbait

    Versatile lure, works well with varying retrieves.

    Buy
  • Williamson Benthos Speed JigJig

    Drop quickly, erratic retrieve is effective.

    Buy

Techniques

Roosterfish often patrol near rocky points and reefs, so focus your efforts in these areas, especially during dawn and dusk.

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Where to Find Roosterfish

Puntarenas, Costa Rica29 spotsBaja California Sur, Mexico9 spotsGuanacaste, Costa Rica6 spotsJalisco, Mexico5 spotsNayarit, Mexico3 spotsChiriquí, Panama3 spotsGuerrero, Mexico2 spotsChocó, Colombia2 spotsMichoacán, Mexico2 spotsChihuahua, Mexico2 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Roosterfish?+

Popular baits for Roosterfish include Blue Runners, Mullet, Sardines, Goggle Eyes, Herring. Tip: Roosterfish often patrol near rocky points and reefs, so focus your efforts in these areas, especially during dawn and dusk.

Where can I catch Roosterfish?+

Roosterfish can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Baja California Sur, Mexico; Guanacaste, Costa Rica. WikiCatch lists 99 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Roosterfish get?+

Roosterfish (Nematistius pectoralis) can reach up to 163 cm in length and 51.7 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.

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