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Leptostomias robustus

Leptostomias robustus

Leptostomias robustus© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Leptostomias robustus is a deep‑sea barbeled dragonfish found in tropical and temperate oceans. It grows up to 33 cm and is known for its bioluminescent lure used to attract prey in the mesopelagic zone.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Stomiidae

Max Size

33 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

deep-water

Best Season

All year, with higher activity during summer months in temperate regions

Best Time

Dusk to night, when the species ascends to shallower depths

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Leptostomias robustus

  • Use deep‑water jigging or vertical long‑line setups to reach target depths
  • Deploy bright bioluminescent or glow‑in‑the‑dark lures that mimic the fish’s natural prey
  • Fish during periods of low surface light to reduce competition from other predators
  • Keep the line tight and use a quick‑release hook to handle the delicate, slippery mouth

Top Fishing Locations for Leptostomias robustus

Cape Point Deep Offshore

South Africa
expert30% Occasional

World-renowned deep‑sea fishing ground off Cape Town where the cold Benguela upwelling attracts abundant mesopelagic species including Leptostomias robustus.

Best: June‑August

Kona Pelagic Zone

United States
intermediate20% Uncommon

The Kona Coast of Hawaii offers steep drop‑offs and night‑time light rigs that draw Leptostomias robustus to the surface during summer evenings.

Best: July‑September

Lanzarote Offshore Trench

Spain
expert25% Uncommon

Deep waters west of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands host a thriving population of Leptostomias robustus, favored by anglers using deep‑water jigs.

Best: May‑October

Christmas Island Deep‑Sea Spot

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Remote Indian Ocean location where night‑time lantern rigs make Leptostomias robustus extremely abundant during the spring months.

Best: March‑May

Ari Atoll Pelagic Zone

Maldives
expert15% Uncommon

Clear tropical waters around Ari Atoll provide excellent visibility for deep‑water jigging targeting Leptostomias robustus in the winter season.

Best: November‑February

São Miguel Deep Drop

Portugal
intermediate35% Occasional

Steep underwater cliffs off São Miguel in the Azores create a natural funnel for Leptostomias robustus, attracting adventurous anglers.

Best: April‑June

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Leptostomias robustus

Recommended Equipment

RodHeavy‑action deep‑sea rod, 7‑8 ft
Line100‑150 lb test braid
Lure TypeGlow‑in‑the‑dark or phosphorescent jig, 30‑50 g
TechniqueVertical jigging or deep‑water trolling

Best bait: Fresh squid strips or small lanternfish, N/A if unavailable