Artedidraco longibarbatus
Artedidraco longibarbatus is a tiny Antarctic dragonfish reaching only 7.5 cm. It inhabits cold, shallow marine waters around the Southern Ocean and is rarely targeted by anglers, but can be caught by light-tackle methods. Its small size and delicate flesh make it more of a curiosity than a sport fish.
Family
Artedidraconidae
Max Size
7.5 cm
Habitat
marine
Climate
temperate
Best Season
December to February (Antarctic summer)
Best Time
Early morning or late afternoon
No distribution map available
Port Lockroy
AntarcticaHistoric research station on the Antarctic Peninsula offering guided ice‑fishing trips targeting Artedidraco longibarbatus in cold, nutrient‑rich waters.
Best: December‑February
King Edward Point, South Georgia
United Kingdom (South Georgia)Remote sub‑Antarctic harbor where charter vessels can fish the deep‑water habitats favored by Artedidraco longibarbatus during the austral summer.
Best: November‑February
Palmer Station (Elephant Island)
United States (Antarctica)U.S. research base providing access to surrounding continental shelf where Artedidraco longibarbatus aggregates near kelp beds.
Best: December‑January
Ushuaia, Beagle Channel
ArgentinaSouthernmost city on the mainland; occasional drift‑fishing trips catch Artedidraco longibarbatus as cold currents flow northward.
Best: March‑April
Kerguelen Islands (Port‑aux-Français)
France (Southern and Antarctic Lands)Remote island archipelago with deep, cold fjords where Artedidraco longibarbatus is regularly found during peak season.
Best: January‑March
Ross Sea (McMurdo Sound)
Antarctica (USA)Expedition vessels operating from McMurdo Station target Artedidraco longibarbatus along the continental shelf edge in pristine waters.
Best: December‑February
Best bait: Live krill or amphipods