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Yellowtail sergeant

Abudefduf notatus

Yellowtail sergeant© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Yellowtail sergeant (Abudefduf notatus) is a small, brightly colored damselfish found on shallow coral reefs. It is popular with snorkelers and divers for its striking yellow tail, but it is not a major food fish due to its small size and modest flesh quality.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Pomacentridae

Max Size

17 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

1-12m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round in tropical waters; peak activity in spring and summer

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon when fish feed near the surface

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Yellowtail sergeant

  • Use ultralight spin gear to avoid spooking the fish
  • Cast tiny soft‑plastic grubs or micro shrimp baits close to reef structure
  • Fish shallow water (1‑5 m) and retrieve slowly to mimic natural prey
  • Keep line tension light; the fish often nibble and release quickly

Top Fishing Locations for Yellowtail sergeant

Raja Ampat Dive Sites

Indonesia
intermediate85% Very Common

World‑renowned reef complex teeming with Yellowtail sergeants around steep drop‑offs and lagoon passes.

Best: April‑September

Rock Islands

Palau
beginner80% Very Common

Crystal‑clear waters and abundant coral heads host dense schools of Yellowtail sergeants, a favorite for reef anglers.

Best: November‑February

Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
intermediate75% Very Common

Iconic reef platform with strong currents that bring Yellowtail sergeants to the surface, perfect for light‑tackle trolling.

Best: June‑August

Molokini Crater, Maui

USA
beginner70% Very Common

Volcanic crater reef known for clear water and abundant Yellowtail sergeants patrolling the rim.

Best: May‑October

Christmas Island

Australia
intermediate78% Very Common

Remote Indian Ocean island where Yellowtail sergeants dominate the shallow reef flats, offering high catch rates for dedicated anglers.

Best: December‑February

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
intermediate65% Common

Isolated atolls with pristine reefs where Yellowtail sergeants are plentiful among branching corals.

Best: January‑April

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Yellowtail sergeant

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs, tiny soft plastics, or micro spoons
TechniqueLight jigging or float fishing near reef structures

Best bait: Small live shrimp or krill pieces