Photo: Kawahara Keiga / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Halichoeres poecilopterus
Multicolorfin Rainbowfish
Saltwater
About this species
A colorful, active wrasse of rocky and weedy shallows off Korea and Japan. Males and females wear different bright patterns, and all bury in sand to sleep. It boldly grabs baits meant for other fish, making it a lively bycatch and light-tackle target.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
1 – 30 m
Habitat Spots
ReefNearshoreHarbor
Fishing Methods
FloatBottom
Bait & Rig
Shrimp or worm pieces on small hooks near rocks and weed.
Edibility & Taste
Soft white flesh, popular grilled with salt or in the Kanto region's tempura.
Similar Species
Told from other wrasses by its green or reddish body and dark side blotch.
Record Weight
0.4 kg