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Black-streaked monocle bream

Scolopsis taeniata

Black-streaked monocle bream© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Black‑streaked monocle bream (Scolopsis taeniata) is a small, silvery marine bream found on reef flats and sandy bottoms in the Indo‑Pacific. It is popular with anglers for its tasty flesh and the challenge of locating it among structure.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Nemipteridae

Max Size

36 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

20-50m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Summer months (December–February in the Southern Hemisphere, June–August in the Northern Hemisphere) when water temperatures are warm

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon when fish move to feed near the surface

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Black-streaked monocle bream

  • Use light tackle (2‑6 lb test line) and a sensitive rod to feel subtle bites
  • Present small live baits such as shrimp or sand hoppers near reef edges
  • Soft‑plastic grubs or small jigs worked slowly along the bottom are effective
  • Fish around structure – drop‑offs, sand‑grass patches, and coral heads where the bream forage for crustaceans

Top Fishing Locations for Black-streaked monocle bream

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner80% Very Common

Crystal-clear waters over extensive coral reefs host abundant populations of Black‑streaked monocle bream, making it a prime spot for reef anglers.

Best: March–May

Misool Island, Raja Ampat

Indonesia
intermediate70% Very Common

Remote dive sites with pristine reefs where the species congregates around sandy drop‑offs and coral outcrops.

Best: June–September

Tubbataha Reefs, Palawan

Philippines
intermediate75% Very Common

World‑renowned marine protected area with dense reef structures that attract large schools of Black‑streaked monocle bream during the dry season.

Best: November–February

Baa Atoll

Maldives
beginner85% Very Common

Lagoon and outer reef zones provide ideal habitats; easy access via liveaboard charters makes it popular with beginners.

Best: January–April

Naviti Island, Yasawa Islands

Fiji
intermediate65% Common

Vibrant reef flats and seagrass patches draw the species in large numbers, especially during the southeast trade winds.

Best: April–June

North Point, Christmas Island

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Isolated reef systems with strong currents bring in schools of Black‑streaked monocle bream; requires careful planning to reach.

Best: October–December

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Black-streaked monocle bream

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic grubs, jig heads, or tiny metal spoons; N/A for live bait
TechniqueBottom/floating bait fishing near reef structures

Best bait: Live shrimp, sand hoppers, or small crabs