Redshoulder Wrasse

Stethojulis bandanensis

Redshoulder Wrasse (Stethojulis bandanensis) is a small Indo-Pacific reef wrasse that is most often seen over clear coral and rubble bottoms. It is colorful but not a major angling target; reliable species-specific fishing information is limited.

Saltwater

Redshoulder Wrasse reference image — Rickard Zerpe, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Distinct orange-red shoulder patch behind the pectoral region
Slender wrasse body with a long continuous dorsal fin
Males show a bluish-green body with bright color bands; females are duller and more subdued

Habitat

Shallow tropical coral reefs, reef flats, lagoon edges, and rubble or seagrass-adjacent sand near reef structure, usually in clear coastal marine water.

Bait notes

Rarely targeted by anglers. If taken incidentally, very small pieces of shrimp, clam, squid, or marine worms on fine tackle may work; tiny jigs or small soft plastics fished close to reef can draw strikes.

Behavior

Diurnal and active over the bottom, picking small benthic invertebrates from sand, rubble, and coral surfaces. It is typically solitary or in small groups and retreats quickly into reef cover when disturbed.

Caution

Reef-associated fish in this family may carry ciguatera risk in some tropical areas; do not eat unless local guidance says it is safe. Handle carefully around sharp reef structure; no major human safety hazards otherwise known.

Fishing notes

Fish light line and small hooks around shallow reef edges and rubble pockets. Present baits low and slow near the bottom; avoid heavy tackle that spooks fish and be prepared for quick dives into structure.