Species guide
How to catch Leather bass
Dermatolepis
saltwatergame fishEpinephelidae
The leather bass is a saltwater predator found in the Pacific. It hunts small benthic fishes and occasionally crustaceans by following herbivorous fishes and moray eels to catch disturbed prey. Juveniles use sea urchins for protection during their early life stages.
Where they live
Inhabits Pacific saltwater reefs at depths of 21 to 40 meters. Prefers areas with active grazing fish and moray eels where it can ambush prey.
Typical size
Up to about 100 cm
What they eat
- small benthic fishes
- crustaceans
Best baits
- small fish bait
- crustacean bait
Best lures
- soft plastic lures
- jigs
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- casting near reefs
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