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Makassar anchovy

Encrasicholina sigma

Makassar anchovyAI-generated illustration

The Makassar anchovy (Encrasicholina sigma) is a tiny marine schooling fish reaching about 7.8 cm. It is abundant in coastal waters of the Indo‑Pacific and is often targeted for bait or small‑scale coastal fisheries. Anglers pursue it for its quick bites and to harvest large numbers for culinary uses.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Engraulidae

Max Size

7.8 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round, with peaks in the wet season (November‑April) in the Indonesian region

Best Time

Early morning and late evening (dawn and dusk)

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Makassar anchovy

  • Use ultralight spinning or fly gear (2–3 lb test line) to feel the light bites.
  • Cast a small surface lure or a split‑shot rig with a 1/16‑to‑1/8 in. hook and fine shrimp or plankton bait.
  • Fish in areas with breaking surf or near mangrove channels where schools congregate.
  • Keep the retrieve slow and steady; a subtle twitch can trigger a strike.

Top Fishing Locations for Makassar anchovy

Makassar Bay

Indonesia
intermediate85% Very Common

A renowned anchovy hotspot where the strong tidal currents bring huge schools of Makassar anchovy to the surface, making surface trolling highly productive.

Best: June‑August

South Bali Coast

Indonesia
beginner70% Very Common

Coastal reefs and sandy flats near Jimbaran attract massive baitball formations, popular with both local and visiting anglers targeting anchovy for live‑bait fishing.

Best: April‑May, September‑October

Christmas Island

Australia
intermediate75% Very Common

Remote island waters where seasonal upwellings concentrate anchovy shoals; a favorite stop for anglers cruising the Indian Ocean.

Best: November‑February

Mactan Strait, Cebu

Philippines
beginner60% Common

Narrow strait with strong currents that funnel anchovy schools, making it a go‑to spot for bait‑casting anglers and tournament crews.

Best: March‑May

Baa Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
intermediate50% Common

Protected marine area where clear waters and abundant plankton support large anchovy aggregations, often used as live bait for larger pelagics.

Best: January‑March

Kilifi Coast, Mombasa

Kenya
expert40% Occasional

Offshore reefs and upwelling zones along the Kenyan coast draw seasonal anchovy schools, prized by anglers hunting big game species that follow the baitfish.

Best: September‑December

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Makassar anchovy

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning or fly rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs, tiny spoons, or soft plastic grubs (1‑2 mm)
TechniqueSurface casting with light jig or float‑bait rig; trolling with tiny bait rigs in shallow surf

Best bait: Live plankton, shrimp larvae, or finely minced fish paste