Spotty
Notolabrus celidotus
Spotty (Notolabrus celidotus) is a New Zealand wrasse common on rocky reefs, kelp beds, and sheltered harbors. It is a curious, active feeder that readily takes small baits, making it a popular inshore target for light tackle.
Identification points
- Olive-brown to green body with a lighter belly
- Distinct dark spot near the pectoral-fin base
- Thick-lipped wrasse shape with a rounded tail and blue-green lines on the head
Habitat
Shallow coastal reefs, kelp-covered boulder fields, seagrass edges, wharf pylons, and sheltered bays around New Zealand; often from the surf zone to a few tens of meters deep.
Bait notes
Small strips of squid, mussel, shrimp/prawn, crab, or sandworm work well; tiny soft plastics and small jigheads can also catch them. Match hook size to mouth size and fish light rigs for better bites.
Behavior
Opportunistic feeder that picks crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and small fish from rocks and weed. It is bold around structure, often schoolish when small, and tends to patrol edges and holes in cover.
Caution
Sharp reef habitat and spiny cover can cause cuts; handle carefully. Follow local size/bag limits and marine reserve rules in New Zealand. As a small inshore reef fish, consumption concerns are generally low, but check local advisories.
Fishing notes
Use light line, small hooks, and berley/chum around reef edges or wharf pilings. Present bait close to the bottom and keep tackle subtle; they can be finicky in clear water but are aggressive once located.