Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus
Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus
© FishBase (CC BY-NC)Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus, the half‑banded flasher, is a tiny marine wrasse‑like fish reaching only 5.6 cm. It inhabits shallow coral reefs and is prized by aquarists rather than anglers, making it a curiosity catch.
Basic Information
Family
Labridae
Max Size
5.6 cm
Habitat
marine
Climate
tropical
Best Season
All year in tropical waters, with peak activity during the warm months (June‑August).
Best Time
Early morning and late afternoon when the fish perform their flashing displays.
Distribution
No distribution map available
Fishing Tips for Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus
- Use the lightest rod and line to feel any subtle bite
- Target areas with dense branching coral where the fish hide
- Employ live micro‑bait and retrieve with a very slow, twitching motion
- If hooked, keep tension minimal to avoid breaking the delicate line
Top Fishing Locations for Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus
Misool Island, Raja Ampat
IndonesiaRemote dive and fishing spot with pristine coral walls teeming with half-banded flashers.
Best: June-October
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
PhilippinesWorld‑heritage marine park, deep reef slopes where the species aggregates in large numbers.
Best: March-May
Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
AustraliaAccessible outer reef with abundant schooling of Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus on reef ledges.
Best: October-December
Mafia Island
TanzaniaEast African coral reef system offering clear waters and seasonal influx of the half‑banded flasher.
Best: November-February
Baa Atoll
MaldivesProtected marine area with vibrant lagoon reefs where the target species is common during summer.
Best: May-August
Christmas Island
AustraliaIsolated island with strong currents that bring the half‑banded flasher in high numbers during the wet season.
Best: January-March
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Paracheilinus hemitaeniatus
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Live brine shrimp, copepods, or other micro crustaceans