Puddingwife Wrasse
Halichoeres radiatus
Puddingwife Wrasse (Halichoeres radiatus) is a Caribbean reef wrasse common on coral and rocky bottoms. It is a colorful, small predatory fish that picks crustaceans and worms from the reef and is more often seen by divers than targeted by anglers.
Identification points
- Long, slender wrasse body with a pointed snout
- Adults show a rosy to reddish-brown body with bright blue lines and spots on the head
- Tail is distinctly notched and the caudal fin often shows vivid blue and yellow tones
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, patch reefs, rocky reef edges, grassbeds near reef, and rubble slopes in the tropical western Atlantic; usually over clear water from the surface to about 30 m.
Bait notes
Small natural baits work best: shrimp pieces, squid strips, bloodworms, and tiny pieces of crab or clam. Small jigs, shrimp imitations, and micro-soft plastics can take them when they are feeding actively.
Behavior
Diurnal and active, it forages by picking small benthic invertebrates from sand and reef crevices. It is wary, quick, and often darts into shelter when approached.
Caution
Reef-caught wrasses can be subject to ciguatera risk in some areas; avoid eating large reef specimens from risky locales. Handle gently because they are small, delicate reef fish.
Fishing notes
Use light spinning or fly tackle with tiny hooks and stealthy presentations near reef edges and sandy patches. Drift baits low and slow; they are not a major game fish and are usually caught incidentally.