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Chinese lizard gudgeon

Saurogobio dabryi

Chinese lizard gudgeon© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Chinese lizard gudgeon (Saurogobio dabryi) is a small, slender freshwater fish native to rivers and lower reaches of China. It frequents slow‑moving waters and can tolerate slightly brackish conditions, making it a common catch for local anglers.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Gobionidae

Max Size

27.3 cm

Habitat

freshwater, brackish

Climate

temperate

Best Season

April to October (late spring through early autumn)

Best Time

Early morning and late evening

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Chinese lizard gudgeon

  • Use ultralight spin‑bait setups with 2–4 lb test line to feel subtle bites.
  • Small live baits such as bloodworms, tiny minnows, or shrimp work best.
  • Cast near submerged vegetation, overhanging roots, or slow‑current pockets where the fish hide.
  • Employ a gentle twitch‑retrieve or bottom‑drag with a tiny jig (1–2 cm) to mimic natural prey.

Top Fishing Locations for Chinese lizard gudgeon

Yangtze River – Fengdu Stretch

China
beginner85% Very Common

A prolific stretch of the middle Yangtze near Fengdu, known for dense populations of Saurogobio dabryi in slow‑moving channels and tributary pools.

Best: April-October

Lake Poyang – Southern Inlet

China
intermediate70% Very Common

The largest freshwater lake in China; its southern inlet provides abundant submerged vegetation where the lizard gudgeon feeds.

Best: May-September

Yellow River – Linfen Reach

China
intermediate65% Common

Mid‑river reaches near Linfen feature gravel bars and backwaters ideal for the species during spawning season.

Best: April-August

Min River – Gorges near Leshan

China
expert75% Very Common

Remote canyon sections of the Min River host clear, oxygen‑rich waters where the gudgeon thrives; a bucket‑list for adventurous anglers.

Best: May-September

Sun Moon Lake – Western Shore

Taiwan
beginner55% Common

Introduced populations have established in the lake’s cooler western littoral zones, offering decent catches for eager anglers.

Best: March-October

Shing Mun Reservoir

Hong Kong
beginner40% Occasional

Urban reservoir with stocked habitats; occasional reports of Chinese lizard gudgeon make it an accessible city‑escape spot.

Best: April-September

Lake Biwa – Northern Bay

Japan
intermediate20% Uncommon

A small, naturalized population discovered in the northern bay; catching one requires patience and precise baiting.

Best: May-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Chinese lizard gudgeon

Recommended Equipment

Rod5‑6 ft ultralight spinning rod, fast action
Line2–4 lb test monofilament or light fluorocarbon
Lure TypeTiny soft‑plastic grubs, micro jigs, or micro spinnerbaits
TechniqueLight casting to near‑shore structure, followed by a slow retrieve or subtle bottom jigging

Best bait: Live bloodworms, small minnows, or shrimp