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Hawaiian cleaner wrasse

Labroides phthirophagus

Hawaiian cleaner wrasse© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Hawaiian cleaner wrasse (Labroides phthirophagus) is a small, brightly colored reef fish that cleans parasites off larger marine species. Though not a target for sport fishing, it can be caught by light tackle when seeking to observe reef ecology or collect for scientific purposes.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Labridae

Max Size

12 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

0-90m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round (peak activity in warmer summer months)

Best Time

Early morning or mid‑afternoon when cleaning stations are most active

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Hawaiian cleaner wrasse

  • Locate known cleaning stations on reef outcrops and approach slowly to avoid spooking the fish
  • Use ultralight gear (2‑4 lb test line) and a small jig or live shrimp as bait
  • Cast a short distance (5‑10 m) and retrieve with a slow, gentle retrieve to let the wrasse investigate
  • Avoid heavy lures or fast retrieves; the fish will bite only on subtle presentations

Top Fishing Locations for Hawaiian cleaner wrasse

Molokini Crater

USA
beginner85% Very Common

A partially submerged volcanic caldera off Maui known for its crystal‑clear waters and abundant reef fish, making it a prime spot for targeting the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse.

Best: May - October

Hanauma Bay

USA
beginner80% Very Common

A protected marine life conservation area on Oʻahu’s southeast coast, famous for dense reef populations and easy shore access, ideal for beginners seeking cleaner wrasse.

Best: June - September

Kealakekua Bay

USA
intermediate78% Very Common

Historic bay on the Big Island with strong currents and vibrant coral walls where cleaner wrasse congregate around cleaning stations.

Best: May - August

Maui’s South Shore – Turtle Town

USA
beginner82% Very Common

A stretch of reef south of Makena known for abundant turtle activity and thriving cleaner wrasse populations around the reefs.

Best: June - September

Kure Atoll, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands

USA
expert60% Common

The farthest northwestern Hawaiian island, remote and pristine; its extensive reef systems host healthy cleaner wrasse numbers, appealing to adventurous anglers.

Best: August - November

Midway Atoll, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

USA
expert55% Common

A World Heritage Site with expansive coral reefs where cleaner wrasse are present but less frequented by anglers, offering a true bucket‑list experience.

Best: July - October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Hawaiian cleaner wrasse

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft plastic jig or micro‑crankbait, 1‑2 in length (or "N/A" if using live bait)
TechniqueLight jigging or gentle twitching with live shrimp near cleaning stations

Best bait: Live or freshly killed shrimp, tiny morsels of krill