Species guide
How to catch Stocky hawkfish
Cirrhitus pinnulatus

saltwatergame fishCirrhitidae
The stocky hawkfish is a nocturnal predator commonly found on reef fronts and rocky shores. It preys mainly on crabs and other crustaceans. This species is popular among anglers in tropical saltwater regions.
Where they live
Inhabits shallow to moderately deep reef fronts and rocky shorelines, typically found inshore up to 23 meters deep across Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
Typical size
Up to about 30 cm
What they eat
- crabs
- crustaceans
Best baits
- shrimp
- crab pieces
- small cut bait
Best lures
- soft plastic crustacean imitations
- small jigs
- crab pattern lures
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- light tackle jigging
- bait fishing near reefs
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