Species guide
How to catch Dwarf goatfish
Upeneus parvus
saltwaterMullidae
The dwarf goatfish is a small saltwater fish known for its slender, fusiform body and distinctive barbels. It primarily inhabits shallow to moderately deep waters over mud and sand bottoms. This species feeds on benthic invertebrates, fish, and shrimps, using its barbels to locate prey.
Where they live
Found in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico over mud and sand bottoms from 18 to 100 meters deep. Juveniles are pelagic up to about 8 cm in length.
Typical size
Up to about 30 cm
What they eat
- benthic invertebrates
- small fish
- shrimps
Best baits
- shrimp
- small cut bait
- worms
Best lures
- small jigs
- soft plastics
- tiny spoons
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- light jigging
- casting small lures near the bottom
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