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Carruco sargo

Genyatremus pacifici

Carruco sargo© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Carruco sargo (Genyatremus pacifici) is a small marine snapper found along the Pacific coast of Central and South America. It grows to about 35 cm and is prized for its delicate white flesh, making it a popular table fish.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Haemulidae

Max Size

35 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Summer months (December‑February in the Southern Hemisphere) when water temperatures rise

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Carruco sargo

  • Use light tackle; a 4‑lb line allows the fish to take the bait without spooking it
  • Fish near structure such as rocky reefs, piers, and mangrove channels where sargo school
  • Present live shrimp or small crabs on a jig and let it rest on the bottom before retrieving
  • Fish during low light periods (dawn/dusk) when the fish are most active

Top Fishing Locations for Carruco sargo

Puerto Angel

Mexico
beginner78% Very Common

A tranquil fishing village in Oaxaca known for abundant carruco sargo around its rocky reefs and mangrove channels.

Best: June-August

Máncora

Peru
intermediate65% Common

A popular surf town where carruco sargo congregate near the breakwaters and offshore sandbars during the warm season.

Best: December-February

Santa Elena

Ecuador
intermediate55% Common

Coastal town on the mainland opposite the Galápagos; the upwelling currents bring carruco sargo close to shore, especially near rocky outcrops.

Best: April-June

Cabo San Lucas

Mexico
expert45% Occasional

At the southern tip of Baja California, night lights attract carruco sargo to the illuminated piers and nearshore reefs.

Best: September-November

Punta Sal

Peru
beginner30% Occasional

A quiet beach stretch with clear waters; carruco sargo are found around the sandbars, especially during the calm summer months.

Best: January-March

Isla del Gallo

Costa Rica
expert20% Uncommon

A remote island off the Osa Peninsula; the strong currents create feeding grounds where carruco sargo appear but are less predictable.

Best: July-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Carruco sargo

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line4‑6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic shrimp or 1‑2 in jigs; alternatively, small spoons
TechniqueBottom fishing over sandy or rocky reefs, using a slow hop‑and‑drop retrieve

Best bait: Live shrimp, small crabs, or cut bait