Photo: Robbie Cada / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Niphon spinosus
Japanese Ara (Saw-edged Perch)
Saltwater
About this species
A deep-dwelling, spiny-headed sea bass revered as a top table fish in Korea and Japan. It lives on rocky bottoms and offshore reefs, growing large and slow. Rare and expensive, it is the true 'dageumbari' distinct from the Jeju kelp grouper.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
50 – 200 m
Habitat Spots
OffshoreReef
Fishing Methods
BottomJigging
Bait & Rig
Live squid, sardine or large cut bait on a heavy bottom rig over deep reefs.
Edibility & Taste
Exquisite, fatty white flesh regarded as a luxury sashimi fish.
Similar Species
Told from true groupers by the strong spines on its gill cover and preopercle.
Record Weight
15 kg