Longspine grunt
Rhencus macracanthus
© FishBase (CC BY-NC)The Longspine grunt (Rhencus macracanthus) is a small coastal fish prized for its mild, flaky flesh and lively action on light tackle. It inhabits marine and brackish waters, often around estuaries, reefs, and sandy bottoms, making it a common target for inshore anglers.
Basic Information
Family
Haemulidae
Max Size
37 cm
Habitat
marine, brackish
Depth Range
1-30m
Climate
tropical
Best Season
June to August
Best Time
Early morning and late afternoon (dawn & dusk)
Distribution
No distribution map available
Fishing Tips for Longspine grunt
- Use small live shrimp or cut bait such as pilchards
- Fish around structures like mangroves, docks, and rocky points
- Tackle with light spinning rod and 4-8 lb test line for subtle bites
- Cast small jigs or soft plastics and retrieve slowly to mimic prey
Top Fishing Locations for Longspine grunt
Maui North Shore, Hawaii
United StatesRich coastal reefs with abundant schooling grunt, especially around Molokini Crater.
Best: May-October
Great Barrier Reef – Lizard Island
AustraliaLizard Island's outer reef channels host large schools of Longspine grunt during warm months.
Best: September-December
Palau – Koror Reefs
PalauClear water passes through extensive reef systems where grunt congregate near drop-offs.
Best: June-September
Cebu, Philippines – Moalboal Reef
PhilippinesMoalboal's sardine run attracts predatory fish including Longspine grunt.
Best: March-May
Christmas Island
AustraliaIsolated reefs with minimal fishing pressure, yielding high grunt densities.
Best: April-June
Fiji – Yasawa Islands
FijiRemote atolls with steep drop-offs where grunt are less frequent.
Best: July-October
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Longspine grunt
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Live shrimp or small cut fish