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Gigantactis macronema

Gigantactis macronema

Gigantactis macronema© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Gigantactis macronema, commonly known as a whipnose angler, is a tiny deep‑sea species that uses a bioluminescent lure to attract prey. It reaches only about 11.7 cm (4.6 in) and is rarely targeted by anglers due to its extreme depth and limited culinary value.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Gigantactinidae

Max Size

11.7 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

650-2500m

Climate

deep-water

Best Season

All year (no pronounced seasonal pattern)

Best Time

Nighttime, when bioluminescent lures are most effective

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Gigantactis macronema

  • Use a deep‑sea drop‑shot rig with a high‑intensity LED or glow stick bait to mimic bioluminescence
  • Deploy a heavy‑duty, 30‑ft (9 m) rod capable of handling long line lengths and deep‑water pressure
  • Select a fluorocarbon line of 30‑50 lb test to balance abrasion resistance and sensitivity
  • Set the hook gently; the fish is small and delicate, so a light hook‑set reduces loss
  • Fish from a vessel equipped with a winch and sturdy outriggers to manage the long descent
  • Target areas with known deep‑sea aggregations, often near underwater canyons or seamounts

Top Fishing Locations for Gigantactis macronema

Christmas Island Deep Sea Zone

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Renowned for its deep offshore trenches where Gigantactis macronema is abundant, often targeted by specialized deep‑sea charter vessels.

Best: December‑February

Ascension Island Abyssal Region

Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
expert60% Common

Remote Atlantic location with steep drop‑offs; popular among big‑game and deep‑sea enthusiasts seeking rare anglerfish.

Best: May‑July

Norfolk Island Deepwater Habitat

Australia
expert55% Common

Isolated southern Pacific waters with extensive seamounts providing ideal habitat for Gigantactis macronema.

Best: August‑October

Galápagos Islands Eastern Basin

Ecuador
expert40% Occasional

Unique marine ecosystem where nutrient‑rich currents attract deep‑sea species, including this anglerfish.

Best: March‑May

Cape Verde Offshore Trench

Cape Verde
expert30% Occasional

Steep underwater canyons off Santo Antão are a hotspot for deep‑sea fishing expeditions targeting Gigantactis macronema.

Best: September‑November

Maldives Ari Atoll Deep Zone

Maldives
expert35% Occasional

While famed for reef fish, the deep surrounding waters host occasional sightings of Gigantactis macronema, attracting adventurous anglers.

Best: June‑August

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Gigantactis macronema

Recommended Equipment

Rod30‑ft (9 m) deep‑sea rod, medium‑heavy action
Line30‑50 lb test fluorocarbon or braid
Lure TypeLED‑powered bioluminescent lure or glow‑stick rig
TechniqueVertical jigging with slow, steady retrieves and occasional pauses to let the lure glow

Best bait: Bioluminescent lures or small soft plastics mimicking deep‑sea organisms