Species guide

How to catch Tomato hind

Cephalopholis sonnerati

Stylized 2D illustration of Tomato hind
saltwatergame fishEpinephelidae

The Tomato hind is a solitary grouper found in coral and rocky reefs across the Indo-Pacific. It is known for its orange spots and fusiform body shape. This predator feeds mainly on shrimp, juvenile lobsters, and crabs.

Where they live

Found in shallow to deep coral and rocky reefs of the Indo-Pacific, between 10 and 150 meters deep.

Typical size

Up to about 57 cm

What they eat

  • shrimp
  • juvenile lobsters
  • crabs
  • small fish
  • crustaceans

Best baits

  • shrimp
  • crab
  • lobster chunks
  • small baitfish

Best lures

  • soft plastic shrimp imitations
  • jigs
  • small diving plugs

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • jigging
  • live bait fishing

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