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Sunrise Anthias

Pyronotanthias timanoa

Sunrise Anthias© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Sunrise Anthias (Pyronotanthias timanoa) is a small, vividly colored reef fish prized by aquarium enthusiasts. It inhabits tropical coral reefs and is rarely targeted for food, making it a niche target for light‑tackle anglers seeking the challenge of catching a tiny, fast‑moving species.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Anthiadidae

Max Size

7.9 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

10-100m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

All year, with peak activity during warm summer months (June‑August) in its native range

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon when anthias form schools near the surface

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Sunrise Anthias

  • Use ultra‑light spinning gear (2‑4 lb test line) and small 4‑6 wt hooks.
  • Present a tiny live bait such as copepods, mysid shrimp, or finely chopped krill.
  • Use small soft‑plastic jigs or micro‑spoon lures (1‑2 cm) worked with a gentle vertical jigging motion near the reef.
  • Target areas with strong water flow and visible anthias schools; keep the retrieve slow to allow the fish to take the bait.

Top Fishing Locations for Sunrise Anthias

Raja Ampat Marine Park

Indonesia
intermediate75% Very Common

World-renowned biodiversity hotspot with steep reef walls where Sunrise Anthias gather in large schools.

Best: June-September

Osprey Reef

Australia
expert60% Common

Remote outer reef of the Great Barrier Reef with crystal‑clear water and vibrant anthias populations.

Best: October-December

North West Point

Australia
intermediate78% Very Common

Isolated volcanic coastline of Christmas Island with deep drop‑offs that host abundant Sunrise Anthias.

Best: April-June

Blue Corner

Palau
intermediate70% Very Common

Famous dive wall with strong currents attracting dense schools of Sunrise Anthias.

Best: May-August

Baa Atoll

Maldives
beginner85% Very Common

Marine protected area with healthy coral reefs where Sunrise Anthias are commonly seen.

Best: November-February

Aldabra Atoll

Seychelles
expert45% Occasional

Remote atoll with pristine reefs; Sunrise Anthias appear occasionally during peak currents.

Best: July-October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Sunrise Anthias

Recommended Equipment

RodUltra‑light spinning rod, 5‑6 ft length, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro soft‑plastic jigs, tiny metal spoons, or tiny feather jigs (1‑2 cm)
TechniqueLight vertical jigging or gentle trolling near reef drop‑offs

Best bait: Live copepods, mysid shrimp, or chopped krill