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Broadbodied toadfish

Riekertia ellisi

Broadbodied toadfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Broadbodied toadfish (Riekertia ellisi) is a small, stout marine fish that frequents sandy and muddy bottoms in coastal waters. It is primarily nocturnal and is sought after more for its curiosity than its sport or table value. Anglers target it for its easy catch and as a night‑time novelty species.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Batrachoididae

Max Size

29 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Spring and summer (April‑September) when water temperatures rise

Best Time

Night to early dawn, as the species is most active after dark

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Broadbodied toadfish

  • Use a light 5‑6 ft spinning rod with a fast action tip for sensitive detection
  • Employ a small soft‑plastic jig or live shrimp as bait, presented close to the bottom
  • Fish over sandy flats, near estuary mouths, or over shallow reef edges where toadfish hide
  • Retrieve slowly or use a gentle bottom‑bounce technique during nighttime hours

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Broadbodied toadfish

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line4‑8 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic jig, shrimp imitation, or tiny spoon
TechniqueBottom fishing with slow retrieve, night fishing

Best bait: Live shrimp or small baitfish