Monkfish
Lophius piscatorius
Monkfish (Lophius piscatorius) is a benthic anglerfish of the northeastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, famous for its huge head and toothy mouth. It lies buried on the seafloor and uses a lure to ambush fish and crustaceans.
Identification points
- Broad, flattened head that is disproportionately large
- Huge crescent mouth with long, inward-pointing teeth
- Arm-like pectoral fins used to crawl along the seafloor
Habitat
Soft-sediment continental shelf and upper-slope bottoms, especially sand, mud, gravel, and shell near reefs, banks, and drop-offs in cold to temperate saltwater.
Bait notes
Best taken on strong bottom gear with large natural baits such as mackerel, squid, herring, or cut fish. Heavy jigs and big soft plastics can work where monkfish are actively feeding.
Behavior
A sit-and-wait ambush predator that stays motionless on the bottom, using its illicium and esca to attract prey before striking with a very large mouth. It mainly feeds on fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Caution
Has very sharp teeth and a powerful bite; handle carefully with a gripper or pliers. Edible tail is prized, but discard the large head and viscera; check local rules because monkfish landings may be regulated.
Fishing notes
Fish low and slow on deep wreck-adjacent or offshore bottom grounds with a stout sinker rig; keep bait close to the seabed. Use abrasion-resistant leaders and be ready for a heavy, dogged fight.