When is the best time to catch Cheilodactylus quadricornis?

The best season for Cheilodactylus quadricornis is Spring and summer (September to February). Best time of day: Early morning or late afternoon, when tides are moving.

What equipment do I need to catch Cheilodactylus quadricornis?

Recommended rod: 7‑8 ft medium‑action spinning or conventional rod. Line weight: 8‑12 lb (3.5‑5.5 kg) test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Technique: Bottom jigging and slow‑retrieval near reef structure. Best bait: Live shrimp, small pilchards or squid strips.

When is the best time to catch Cheilodactylus quadricornis?

The best season for Cheilodactylus quadricornis is Spring and summer (September to February). Best time of day: Early morning or late afternoon, when tides are moving.

What equipment do I need to catch Cheilodactylus quadricornis?

Recommended rod: 7‑8 ft medium‑action spinning or conventional rod. Line weight: 8‑12 lb (3.5‑5.5 kg) test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Technique: Bottom jigging and slow‑retrieval near reef structure. Best bait: Live shrimp, small pilchards or squid strips.

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Fish Details

Cheilodactylus quadricornis

The four‑horned morwong (Cheilodactylus quadricornis) is a striking, robust reef fish found around New Zealand and southern Australia. It’s prized for its fighting spirit and solid flesh, making it a popular target for both rod‑and‑reel anglers and spearos.

Fight

Taste

Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Pomacentridae

Max Size

50 cm (20 inches) or 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs)

Habitat

Rocky reefs, kelp forests and boulder‑strewn slopes, 5‑50 m depth in temperate coastal waters

Best Season

Spring and summer (September to February)

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon, when tides are moving

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Cheilodactylus quadricornis

Use a light‑to‑medium bottom‑running rig and keep the bait close to the substrate where the fish ambushes prey.
Target structure such as boulders, overhangs and kelp patches where the morwong hides waiting for small fish.
Retrieve a soft‑plastic jig or metal spinner slowly with occasional pauses to trigger a strike.
Fish during incoming or outgoing tides; the current brings baitfish and stimulates feeding activity.

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Cheilodactylus quadricornis

Recommended Equipment

Rod7‑8 ft medium‑action spinning or conventional rod

Line8‑12 lb (3.5‑5.5 kg) test monofilament or fluorocarbon

Lure TypeSoft‑plastic grubs, metal spinners or small jigs (1‑2 in)

TechniqueBottom jigging and slow‑retrieval near reef structure

Best bait: Live shrimp, small pilchards or squid strips