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Longspined porcupinefish

Diodon holocanthus

Longspined porcupinefish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Longspined porcupinefish (Diodon holocanthus) is a striking marine puffer known for its prominent spines and ability to inflate. It is sought after by sport anglers for its unique appearance rather than its table value, as it is toxic if not expertly prepared. Its presence around reefs and rocky bottoms makes it a fun target for light‑tackle fishing.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected
Reports of ciguatera
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Diodontidae

Max Size

50 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

2-200m

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Warm months (June‑August) in tropical regions

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Longspined porcupinefish

  • Use light to medium spinning gear to avoid damaging the fish’s spines
  • Present live shrimp or small baitfish near structure to trigger a strike
  • Retract the line slowly after hooking to allow the fish to swallow the bait
  • Handle the catch gently and release promptly to prevent injury to both fish and angler

Top Fishing Locations for Longspined porcupinefish

Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef

Australia
intermediate75% Very Common

Expansive reef system with abundant Longspined porcupinefish, especially around Lizard Island where night spearfishing is popular.

Best: June–September

South Ari Atoll

Maldives
beginner80% Very Common

Remote atoll with clear waters and plentiful reef fish; Longspined porcupinefish are common around coral outcrops.

Best: January–April

North West Coast – Christmas Island

Australia
intermediate78% Very Common

Isolated island with pristine reefs; anglers targeting porcupinefish often report high success rates during peak season.

Best: May–October

Kerama Islands

Japan
intermediate65% Common

A chain of small islands off Okinawa with vibrant reef habitats where Longspined porcupinefish are regularly caught on night dives.

Best: May–October

Moalboal – Cebu

Philippines
beginner70% Very Common

Famous dive spot with abundant reef life; porcupinefish are often seen hiding among the rubble and are caught with light tackle.

Best: March–June

Sharm El Sheikh – Red Sea

Egypt
beginner60% Common

Warm Red Sea waters host a variety of reef fish; Longspined porcupinefish are common around the coral walls.

Best: October–March

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Belize
beginner55% Common

Protected marine area with healthy coral ecosystems; anglers targeting reef species frequently encounter porcupinefish.

Best: February–May

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Longspined porcupinefish

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium‑action spinning rod (6‑7 ft)
Line8‑12 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic shrimp or small jig
TechniqueBottom or near‑structure jigging with a slow retrieve

Best bait: Live shrimp, small pilchards or squid strips