Mexican Hogfish
Bodianus diplotaenia
Mexican Hogfish (Bodianus diplotaenia) is a colorful eastern Pacific wrasse of rocky reefs and coral zones. Juveniles are cleaner fish; adults feed on benthic invertebrates and are prized more by divers than anglers.
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Identification points
- Bright red to orange body with two bold blue longitudinal stripes on adults
- Large canine teeth and a stout wrasse shape with a blunt head
- Juveniles are much darker with a pale saddle/stripe pattern and cleaner-fish behavior
Habitat
Rocky reefs, coral heads, surge channels, and steep drop-offs from shallow water to around 100 m in the eastern tropical Pacific; juveniles often stay in shallower reef structure.
Bait notes
Small strips of squid, shrimp, crab pieces, and cut bait can take fish that are willing to bite; small jigged soft plastics or baited hooks near reef edges may also work. It is not a major target species.
Behavior
Juveniles act as cleaner fish, picking parasites from larger reef fishes. Adults forage along the bottom for crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and small benthic prey, often moving deliberately around reef structure.
Caution
Sharp canine-like teeth can nick fingers and leaders. As a reef-associated predator, localized ciguatera risk may exist in some areas, so follow local consumption advisories and size/season rules where applicable.
Fishing notes
Fish tight to rocky structure with light to medium tackle and natural presentations, keeping baits near the bottom. Expect cautious bites; use enough weight to hold in current and avoid snagging on reef. Often better as a bycatch than a primary target.