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Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus

Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus

Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus, known as the dusky stargazer, is a small benthic marine fish that lies buried in sandy or muddy bottoms and ambushes prey with its upward‑facing eyes. It is rarely targeted by sport anglers but can be caught using bottom‑contact tactics and is occasionally eaten locally.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Uranoscopidae

Max Size

30 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

366-389m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

June to September (warm summer months)

Best Time

Nighttime to pre‑dawn, when the fish is most active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus

  • Use a light‑weight spinning rod and 6‑10 lb test line to feel subtle bites.
  • Present small live baits such as shrimp, sand lance, or minnow near the bottom.
  • Fish a soft‑plastic or metal jig that drifts slowly along the substrate; keep the lure just above the seabed.
  • Employ a slow, steady retrieve or let the bait sit on the bottom; any sudden movement may spook the ambush predator.

Top Fishing Locations for Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus

South Ari Atoll

Maldives
intermediate72% Very Common

Clear waters and sandy bottoms attract Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus; popular dive spots make it accessible for anglers.

Best: January-April

Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt
beginner60% Common

Protected reef in the Red Sea with abundant benthic fauna; stargazers are commonly found on the sandy flats.

Best: October-April

Cairns, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
intermediate50% Common

Outer reef slopes provide ideal habitat; seasonal migrations increase encounters during southern winter.

Best: June-August

Christmas Island

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Remote island with pristine reefs; Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus is abundant in the lagoon during peak season.

Best: March-May

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Philippines
expert35% Occasional

World‑heritage marine park with deep sandy channels where the species hides; requires liveaboard charter.

Best: November-February

Aldabra Atoll

Seychelles
intermediate55% Common

Large raised coral atoll with extensive lagoon; known for high stargazer densities on soft substrates.

Best: May-October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Uranoscopus fuscomaculatus

Recommended Equipment

RodLight to medium spinning rod, 6‑7 ft, fast action
Line6‑10 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic grubs, small bucktail jigs, or tiny metal spoons; 'N/A' if using live bait
TechniqueBottom fishing / drift with slow retrieve

Best bait: Small live shrimp, sand lance, or minnow; cut bait works too