Cline
Clinitrachus argentatus
© FishBase (CC BY-NC)The Cline (Clinitrachus argentatus) is a small marine fish that reaches about 10 cm (3.9 inches) in length. It lives in shallow coastal waters, often among seagrass and rocky reefs, and is sought after for its subtle bite and as a useful baitfish.
Basic Information
Family
Clinidae
Max Size
10 cm
Habitat
marine
Climate
subtropical
Best Season
Spring and early summer (April-June)
Best Time
Early morning or late afternoon
Distribution
Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.
Fishing Tips for Cline
- Use light tackle with a 2-4 lb test line
- Target near seagrass and structure where they hide
- Use tiny soft-plastic grubs or live shrimp as bait
- Cast gently and retrieve slowly to allow the fish to take the bait
Top Fishing Locations for Cline
Portovenere, Ligurian Coast
ItalyRocky reefs and kelp beds where Cline congregate in large numbers during summer months.
Best: May-September
Elba Island, Tuscany
ItalyClear waters and abundant sea grass make this a hotspot for Cline in mid‑summer.
Best: June-August
Santorini, Greece (Aegean Sea)
GreeceSteep volcanic walls host thriving Cline populations, especially after the warm summer currents.
Best: July-October
Ras Mohammed National Park
EgyptProtected coral gardens in the Red Sea attract Cline throughout the spring spawning run.
Best: March-May
Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
AustraliaRemote outer reef with pristine habitat; Cline are abundant but access is challenging.
Best: November-February
False Bay, Cape Town
South AfricaCool upwelling waters support a healthy Cline population during the Southern Hemisphere spring.
Best: September-November
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Cline
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Small live shrimp or mysid