Roosterfish
Nematistius pectoralis
FR Poisson coq · ES Pez gallo · PT Peixe-galo · IT Pesce gallo · DE Roosterfisch
Also known as: Rooster TailPapagalloPlumièrePez galloPoisson coqRoosterfischPesce galloPeixe-galo
Surf/EstuaryShoreBoat
Gamefish
Score
—
Prime time
Warm months; low light, active bait pushes
Depth
0–20m
Platform
Shore & boat
Season
JanMarJunSepDec
Peak Jun–SepGood May–Oct
Depth range
0–20mMedium
Best fishing techniques
Float fishing60%
Preferred seabed
Sand
Findr bio
Daylight surf and beach cruiser. Livebaits or poppers — make it exciting...
How to catch
Favourite hangouts
Sandy beach
Recommended baits
Fish baitsSurface lures
Diet
Small fishForage fishSquidCrabShrimp
Effective techniques
SpinningSurfcastingTrolling
Gear
Best times
DawnDay
Surf-line show-off — that rooster comb is pure theatre.
Field notes
Where to find them
Eastern Pacific beaches, points, rocky shorelines
Where they hang out
Surf and nearshore, shallow water
Prime time
Warm months; low light, active bait pushes
Tide game
Moderate
What they're into
Live baitfish, lures cast along the shoreline
Temperature vibe
Prefers 12–20°C
Fave weather
Clean surf and visible bait activity best
Fun fact about me
Surf-line show-off — that rooster comb is pure theatre.
Dinner material?
2/10Best left in the water
Play by the rules
Check local size/bag rulesLocal/regional fisheries authority
Looking after them
Data Deficient
Other regions where you can target Roosterfish