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Acanthopagrus swinhonis

Acanthopagrus swinhonis

Acanthopagrus swinhonisAI-generated illustration

Acanthopagrus swinhonis, commonly known as Swinhoe's seabream, is a prized coastal game fish in East Asian waters. It offers a spirited but manageable fight and is highly regarded for its firm, mildly sweet flesh, making it a popular table fish.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Sparidae

Max Size

30 cm (12 in) / 1.0 kg (2.2 lbs)

Habitat

Coastal rocky reefs and seagrass beds, 5‑30 m depth

Best Season

April to September (spring through early autumn)

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Acanthopagrus swinhonis

  • Use light spinning gear (6‑7 ft medium‑action rod) to feel subtle bites
  • Target areas with seagrass or rocky outcrops where schools gather
  • Retrieve soft‑plastic jigs or shrimp lures slowly with occasional hops
  • Fish on a rising tide for increased activity

Top Fishing Locations for Acanthopagrus swinhonis

Miyakojima, Okinawa

Japan
intermediate85% Very Common

Clear waters and abundant reef structures make Miyakojima a premier spot for Acanthopagrus swinhonis, especially around the western bays where local anglers target the species year‑round.

Best: May–October

Kenting National Park

Taiwan
beginner78% Very Common

The coastal reefs of Kenting host large schools of black porgy; night baitcasts and surf‑fishing from the popular Baisha Bay are especially productive.

Best: June–September

Sai Kung

Hong Kong
beginner70% Very Common

Sai Kung's sheltered inlets and rocky outcrops are a favorite weekend destination for Hong Kong anglers seeking A. swinhonis on light tackle.

Best: April–October

Jeju Island

South Korea
intermediate65% Common

The southern coast of Jeju offers rocky reefs and kelp beds where A. swinhonis feed; local charters target the species during the summer months.

Best: May–September

Mactan Island, Cebu

Philippines
intermediate55% Common

Mactan's coral reefs and mangrove fringes attract black porgy, and many dive‑fishing operators run specialized trips during the dry season.

Best: March–July

Sanya, Hainan Island

China
expert45% Occasional

Sanya's offshore reef complexes are a bucket‑list locale; the species is less abundant here, making each catch feel rewarding.

Best: July–November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Acanthopagrus swinhonis

Recommended Equipment

Rod6‑7 ft medium‑action spinning rod
Line8‑12 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic grubs, small jigs, or shrimp imitations
TechniqueLight jigging or casting near structure

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