Cuckoo Wrasse
Labrus mixtus
FR Vieille coquette · ES Doncella · PT Bodião-canário · IT Tordo codanera · DE Kuckuckslippfisch
Also known as: Bodião-donzelaDoncellaVieille coquetteKuckuckslippfischTordo codaneraBodião-canário
Reef/KelpShoreBoat
Reef
Score
—
Prime time
Daylight; over broken ground with kelp and boulders.
Depth
0–100m
Platform
Shore & boat
Season
JanMarJunSepDec
Peak Jun–AugGood May–Sep
Depth range
0–100mDeep
Best fishing techniques
Bottom fishing / ledgering60%
Vertical / shore jigging60%
Preferred seabed
Rock
Findr bio
Daylight flirt over broken ground with kelp and boulders. Swipe right if you've got a small crab or prawn...
How to catch
Favourite hangouts
Pier harborRocky shoreWreck reef
Recommended baits
CrabShellfish
Diet
CrabSnailsBivalvesSmall fishSea urchins
Effective techniques
Light Rock FishingBottom FishingJigging
Gear
Best times
Day
Rockpool stylist with bold colours and bolder attitude — proper coastal peacock.
Field notes
Where to find them
North Atlantic, North Sea (west)
Where they hang out
Rocky points and reefs in 5–25 m; piers with kelp beds can hold them.
Prime time
Daylight; over broken ground with kelp and boulders.
Tide game
Moderate; works best with some run.
What they're into
Small crab and prawn baits
Temperature vibe
Active in mild–warm months; slows in winter.
Fave weather
Clearer seas help; big swell tucks them into holes.
Fun fact about me
Rockpool stylist with bold colours and bolder attitude — proper coastal peacock.
Dinner material?
4/10Better released
Play by the rules
Local protections possible; bright colours make them popular for photos—handle gently.Regional conservation/fisheries bodies; national agencies.
Looking after them
Least Concern