Species guide

How to catch Indian goatfish

Parupeneus indicus

#1288

Stylized 2D illustration of Indian goatfish
#1288BrackishSaltwaterGame FishBrackishSaltwaterAtlanticPacificIndian Ocean

The Indian goatfish is a colorful reef fish known for its distinctive barbels used to detect prey. It typically inhabits shallow sandy or silty areas near coastal and lagoon reefs. This species is a predator feeding on small benthic invertebrates.

Where they live

Found in shallow sandy or silty coastal and inner lagoon reefs in brackish and saltwater regions across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, typically between 10 and 30 meters deep.

Typical size

Up to about 45 cm

What they eat

  • small benthic invertebrates
  • worms
  • crustaceans

Best baits

  • pieces of shrimp
  • clam
  • worm

Best lures

  • small jigs
  • soft plastic grubs
  • paddle tail lures

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • light jigging
  • bait casting

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