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Brunei dartfish

Navigobius vittatus

Brunei dartfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Brunei dartfish (Navigobius vittatus) is a very small marine species reaching only about 2.3 cm. It inhabits shallow coastal reefs and tide pools in tropical waters and is prized more for its striking colors in the aquarium trade than as a sport fish.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Microdesmidae

Max Size

2.3 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

25-31m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round in tropical regions

Best Time

Early morning and late evening when small prey are most active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Brunei dartfish

  • Use ultralight gear with a 2‑4 lb test line and size‑6 or smaller hooks to avoid spooking the tiny fish
  • Target shallow reef crevices, tide pools, and near‑shore drop‑offs where the dartfish hide among rubble
  • Fish during high tide and low light periods (dawn/dusk) when their prey are most abundant
  • Employ a gentle jigging or drift technique with micro lures or tiny live shrimp to entice a bite without breaking the line

Top Fishing Locations for Brunei dartfish

Tasek Lama River & Mangroves

Brunei
beginner80% Very Common

Protected mangrove and riverine habitats teeming with Brunei dartfish; easy shore access and abundant structure make it a beginner-friendly hotspot.

Best: November-February

Sipadan Island

Malaysia
intermediate65% Common

World‑renowned dive site with steep walls and vibrant coral where dartfish patrol the overhangs; requires a live‑aboard or day‑trip charter.

Best: April-June

Raja Ampat

Indonesia
expert55% Common

Remote archipelago of pristine reefs; the species is present in shallow lagoon reefs but reaching them demands logistical planning.

Best: October-December

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
intermediate70% Very Common

Isolated island reef with clear water and abundant rubble zones where the dartfish hides; accessible via charter flights to the island.

Best: January-March

Moalboal Reef, Cebu Island

Philippines
beginner60% Common

Popular dive destination with abundant macro life; dartfish are often spotted near the coral ledges and sand patches.

Best: May-July

expert45% Occasional

Remote bay with extensive reef flats; the species is less common here, requiring reef hikes and night dives for best results.

Best: July-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Brunei dartfish

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 2‑3 ft length, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs or tiny soft‑plastic grubs, 1‑2 mm size, or no lure (live bait only)
TechniqueLight surface casting or drift over reef flats, allowing the bait to drift slowly near the bottom

Best bait: Very small live bait such as shrimp nauplii, copepods, or micro worms