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Twospot surgeonfish

Ctenochaetus binotatus

Twospot surgeonfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Twospot surgeonfish (Ctenochaetus binotatus) is a small, bright‑colored reef fish prized for its striking pattern of two dark spots near the caudal fin. It frequents coral reefs and feeds on algae, making it a common sight for snorkelers but a modest target for anglers.

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Basic Information

Family

Acanthuridae

Max Size

22 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

0-60m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round, with peak activity in warm summer months

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon when algae grazing is highest

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Twospot surgeonfish

  • Use a light spin‑rod (1.5‑2.1 m) with 2‑4 lb test line to avoid spooking the fish
  • Present small natural baits such as chopped seaweed, algae sheets, or tiny shrimp pieces on a light jig head
  • Employ a gentle drop‑shot or light jigging motion near the reef structure to mimic grazing activity
  • Stay low in the water or use a kayak to maintain a stealthy profile and target fish near overhangs and coral ledges

Top Fishing Locations for Twospot surgeonfish

Christmas Island Marine Park

Australia
intermediate75% Very Common

Remote island with pristine reefs where Twospot surgeonfish aggregate on outer slopes, making them easy to target during the austral summer.

Best: November‑April

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
beginner85% Very Common

World‑renowned dive and fishing destination; the atoll’s lagoon reefs host large schools of Twospot surgeonfish, especially around drop‑offs.

Best: December‑March

Blue Corner, Palau

Palau
intermediate70% Very Common

Famous wall dive where surgeonfish patrol the reef crest; anglers can target them from boats using light tackle.

Best: May‑October

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
intermediate80% Very Common

Northern GBR sector with abundant coral gardens; Twospot surgeonfish are common on the outer reef flats.

Best: June‑September

Kealakekua Bay, Kona Coast

United States
expert30% Occasional

Protected marine reserve in Hawaii where surgeonfish are present but more dispersed; requires patience and skill to locate schools.

Best: April‑June

Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt
beginner60% Common

Red Sea’s premier reef system; surgeonfish gather near coral outcrops, offering solid catch rates for dedicated anglers.

Best: October‑February

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Twospot surgeonfish

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning rod, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft‑plastic micro‑jig or tiny spoon; N/A if using natural bait
TechniqueLight jigging/drop‑shot near reef substrate

Best bait: Chopped seaweed, algae strips, tiny shrimp or krill