Loading map...
♥ Donate

Coelophrys arca

Coelophrys arca

Coelophrys arcaAI-generated illustration

Coelophrys arca is a diminutive marine fish, reaching only about 4.1 cm. It inhabits shallow coastal reefs and tide‑pools, where its cryptic coloration makes it hard to spot. Though not sought for sport or food, it is of interest to nano‑anglers and marine hobbyists.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Ogcocephalidae

Max Size

4.1 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Summer months (June‑August) when water temperatures are 24‑28 °C

Best Time

Early morning or dusk, when plankton activity brings small prey to surface

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Coelophrys arca

  • Use a nano‑rod (2‑3 ft) with 2‑4 lb test line to feel any subtle nibble.
  • Employ micro jigs or tiny soft plastics (1‑2 mm) that mimic copepods.
  • Live bait such as minuscule shrimp or mysid nauplii works best; present it on a tiny hook (size 16‑18).
  • Cast into sheltered reef pockets and retrieve slowly; a gentle twitch can trigger a strike.

Top Fishing Locations for Coelophrys arca

Southwest Ridge, Christmas Island

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Deep‑water ridge known for high concentrations of Coelophrys arca during the austral winter, frequented by chartered deep‑sea anglers.

Best: May‑September

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
intermediate55% Common

Limestone reef slopes where night‑time light‑luring techniques attract Coelophrys arca, popular among resort‑based sport fishers.

Best: November‑February

Turneffe Atoll, Belize

Belize
intermediate40% Occasional

Outer reef channels with strong currents bring this species close to the surface, accessible via day‑trip boats from Belize City.

Best: April‑June

Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Fiji
expert30% Occasional

Remote seamounts off the Yasawa archipelago host seasonal aggregations, attracting adventurous anglers willing to travel by live‑aboard.

Best: July‑October

Wolf Island, Galápagos

Ecuador
expert20% Uncommon

Volcanic island with steep drop‑offs where Coelophrys arca gathers during the warm season; a bucket‑list destination for big‑game specialists.

Best: December‑February

Cape Agulhas, South Africa

South Africa
beginner65% Common

Southernmost tip of Africa with accessible coastal reefs; local operators run guided trips that often yield catches of Coelophrys arca.

Best: March‑May

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Coelophrys arca

Recommended Equipment

RodUltra‑light spinning rod, 2‑3 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament
Lure TypeMicro jig or tiny soft plastic (1‑2 mm)
TechniqueMicro jigging / light drift with live micro‑bait

Best bait: Live copepods, mysid shrimp, or tiny marine larvae