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Eyestripe surgeonfish

Acanthurus dussumieri

Eyestripe surgeonfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Eyestripe surgeonfish (Acanthurus dussumieri) is a bright silver reef dweller with a distinctive black stripe through the eye. It frequents coral and rocky outcrops in tropical Indo‑Pacific waters, grazing on algae. Though not a primary sport fish, it is occasionally caught by light‑tackle anglers targeting reef species.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Acanthuridae

Max Size

54 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

4-131m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Warm tropical months (May–October), when water temperatures are 26‑30 °C and fish are most active

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon, when the fish move out of shelter to feed

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Eyestripe surgeonfish

  • Use ultralight gear – a 5‑7 ft fast‑action spin rod with 2‑4 lb test line
  • Cast close to patch reefs or algae‑rich areas where the fish graze
  • Trawl a tiny soft plastic grub or micro jig slowly to imitate natural food
  • Use a small hook (size 10‑12) and a light leader to reduce spooking

Top Fishing Locations for Eyestripe surgeonfish

Christmas Island Marine Park

Australia
beginner75% Very Common

Crystal clear waters around the island host abundant schools of Eyestripe surgeonfish, especially near the reef slopes.

Best: December-February

South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
beginner85% Very Common

Lagoon reefs with vibrant coral attract large aggregations of Acanthurus dussumieri, perfect for light tackle.

Best: May-October

Praslin Island, Seychelles

Seychelles
intermediate80% Very Common

Fringing reefs and drop-offs around Praslin are known for consistent surgeonfish action.

Best: June-September

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Philippines
intermediate70% Very Common

Remote protected area where schools of Eyestripe surgeonfish patrol the outer reef walls.

Best: March-May

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner65% Common

Hardy reef tops and seagrass patches near Lizard Island draw steady numbers of surgeonfish.

Best: October-December

West Maui, Hawaii

United States
intermediate60% Common

The sheltered bays off West Maui host regular schools of Eyestripe surgeonfish, especially around Makena.

Best: April-June

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Eyestripe surgeonfish

Recommended Equipment

RodLight‑spin or ultralight rod, 5‑7 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft plastic grubs, micro jigs, or tiny spoons
TechniqueLight jigging or surface plug near reef structure with a slow retrieve

Best bait: Fresh algae, kelp fragments, or small shrimp such as brine shrimp