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Branchiostegus argentatus

Branchiostegus argentatus

Branchiostegus argentatus© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Branchiostegus argentatus, commonly known as the silver tilefish, is a small marine tilefish prized for its delicate white flesh. It inhabits sandy or rubble bottoms near coral reefs and is sought after by anglers targeting reef species.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Latilidae

Max Size

27.3 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

51-65m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

April to September (warmer months in its Indo‑Pacific range)

Best Time

Early morning and late evening when fish are most active near the bottom

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Branchiostegus argentatus

  • Use light tackle to avoid spooking this shy species
  • Fish close to structured habitats such as coral heads or drop‑offs
  • Employ a slow, steady retrieve with soft‑plastic jigs or live shrimp
  • Keep your hook size small (size 6‑8) to match the fish’s mouth

Top Fishing Locations for Branchiostegus argentatus

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner80% Very Common

Renowned reef system with abundant silver tilefish; easy access via day boats from Cairns.

Best: November-March

Raja Ampat, West Papua

Indonesia
intermediate60% Common

Pristine biodiverse reefs where Branchiostegus argentatus frequents sandy drop‑offs and lagoon edges.

Best: October-April

El Nido, Palawan

Philippines
beginner70% Very Common

Popular dive and fishing hub; silver tilefish are common around the limestone cliffs and sandy channels.

Best: March-May, September-November

Okinawa Islands

Japan
intermediate55% Common

Subtropical reefs with strong currents that attract silver tilefish to deeper reef ledges.

Best: May-August

South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
expert45% Occasional

Remote atoll with clear waters and sandy drop‑offs; excellent for targeting tilefish on live‑bait rigs.

Best: January-April, November-December

Sharm El Sheikh, Red Sea

Egypt
beginner75% Very Common

Warm Red Sea currents bring silver tilefish to the outer reef slopes; accessible from shore and charter boats.

Best: September-November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Branchiostegus argentatus

Recommended Equipment

RodLight to medium spinning rod, fast action
Line4‑6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic jigs, small bucktail spinners, shrimp imitations
TechniqueBottom jigging or slow trolling near reefs

Best bait: Live shrimp or small crab pieces