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Spotnape butterflyfish

Chaetodon oxycephalus

Spotnape butterflyfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Spotnape butterflyfish (Chaetodon oxycephalus) is a small, colorful reef fish known for its distinctive white spot on the nape and vibrant patterns. It inhabits coral reefs in the Indo‑Pacific and is prized more by underwater photographers and reef anglers than as a food fish.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Chaetodontidae

Max Size

25 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

10-40m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round (tropical waters provide consistent conditions)

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon when fish are most active near the reef

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Spotnape butterflyfish

  • Use light tackle; a 2‑3 ft ultralight spinning rod with 2‑4 lb test line works best.
  • Employ small live baits such as shrimp or krill, or use tiny soft‑plastic or feather jigs under 1 inch.
  • Target shallow reef drop‑offs and overhangs where butterflyfish feed on coral polyps and zooplankton.
  • Retrieve slowly with a subtle twitch to mimic natural prey movement.

Top Fishing Locations for Spotnape butterflyfish

Christmas Island Reef

Australia
beginner78% Very Common

Crystal-clear waters around Christmas Island host abundant populations of Spotnape butterflyfish, making it a top destination for anglers targeting this species.

Best: December - March

Raja Ampat Archipelago

Indonesia
intermediate65% Common

Remote reef systems of Raja Ampat offer pristine habitats where Spotnape butterflyfish are plentiful, attracting adventurous anglers.

Best: April - September

Baa Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
beginner82% Very Common

World‑renowned marine protected area with vibrant coral gardens teeming with Spotnape butterflyfish, ideal for luxury‑focused anglers.

Best: November - April

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner88% Very Common

Situated on the outer reef of the GBR, Lizard Island provides easy access to dense Spotnape populations for both novices and seasoned anglers.

Best: October - April

Rock Islands, Palau

Palau
intermediate70% Very Common

Iconic limestone islets surrounded by nutrient‑rich currents support thriving Spotnape communities, making it a bucket‑list spot.

Best: May - October

Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt
beginner68% Common

The Red Sea’s Ras Mohammed offers spectacular reef walls where Spotnape butterflyfish are common, appealing to divers‑turned‑anglers.

Best: March - June

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Spotnape butterflyfish

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 2‑3 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeTiny soft‑plastic or feather jig, 1‑2 inches; optional micro‑hardbait
TechniqueLight jigging near reef structure; surface or subsurface slow retrieves

Best bait: Live shrimp, krill, or small zooplankton