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Desert pupfish

Cyprinodon macularius

Desert pupfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius) is a tiny 5 cm freshwater fish native to isolated desert springs and pools in the southwestern United States. Anglers target it for its novelty and the challenge of locating its remote habitats rather than for sport or food.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Cyprinodontidae

Max Size

5 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Spring and early summer when water levels are highest

Best Time

Early morning and late evening

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Desert pupfish

  • Use an ultralight 2‑3 ft spinning rod with a 2‑4 lb test line to feel the light bites.
  • Present a micro jig or tiny soft‑plastic grub (1‑2 mm) near the surface or just below a floating line.
  • Target shallow, vegetated margins where pupfish congregate; a small float can help detect subtle takes.
  • Keep the hook size no larger than #12 and use live micro‑bait such as daphnia or newly hatched brine shrimp.

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Desert pupfish

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 2‑3 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jig, tiny soft‑plastic grub, or micro spoon
TechniqueShallow surface casting with a light float, feel‑baiting

Best bait: Live daphnia, brine shrimp, or algae wafers