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Bluestriped butterflyfish

Chaetodon fremblii

Bluestriped butterflyfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The bluestriped butterflyfish (Chaetodon fremblii) is a small, colorful reef dweller prized by anglers for its striking blue stripes and as a catch‑and‑release target on coral reefs. Though not sought for food, it offers a fun, light‑tackle challenge for reef fishing enthusiasts.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Chaetodontidae

Max Size

13.7 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

4-65m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

May to September (warm tropical months)

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Bluestriped butterflyfish

  • Use ultra‑light tackle to avoid spooking the fish
  • Fish near coral heads and overhangs where they feed on zooplankton
  • Keep the hook size small (size 12‑14) and the bait presentation subtle
  • Retrieve slowly or let the bait drift to mimic natural prey

Top Fishing Locations for Bluestriped butterflyfish

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner85% Very Common

World‑renowned reef with abundant coral heads where bluestriped butterflyfish are a staple of the mid‑water schools.

Best: April-October

Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt
beginner80% Very Common

Iconic Red Sea marine park; the steep drop‑offs host dense populations of Chaetodon fremblii, making it a prime spot for reef anglers.

Best: September-November

Rock Islands, Palau

Palau
intermediate75% Very Common

Remote archipelago with crystal‑clear lagoons; the intricate reef structures support large schools of bluestriped butterflyfish, attracting dedicated sport fishers.

Best: May-September

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
beginner90% Guaranteed

Luxury dive and fishing destination where pristine coral reefs make the bluestriped butterflyfish extremely abundant during the dry season.

Best: December-March

North West Shelf, Christmas Island

Australia
intermediate70% Very Common

Isolated reef platform with strong currents that concentrate reef fish; bluestriped butterflyfish are very common here for focused anglers.

Best: June-August

Kona Coast, Big Island

United States (Hawaii)
intermediate60% Common

The volcanic reef wall off Kona hosts a healthy population of bluestriped butterflyfish; accessible yet still a bucket‑list location for reef specialists.

Best: May-October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Bluestriped butterflyfish

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line4-6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeTiny soft‑plastic shrimp or micro jigs
TechniqueLight tackle drop‑shot or float rig with a gentle retrieve

Best bait: Live brine shrimp or small shrimp pieces