Squirrelfish

Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from Bermuda and Florida south through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. Found around shallow coral reefs, rocky crevices, and under ledges in 10–100 feet. A very common nocturnal reef fish throughout the Caribbean and Florida Keys. One of the most recognizable small reef fish — bright red with white stripes and large eyes.

Preferred Water Temperature: 72°F–84°F. A tropical reef fish that hides in crevices and under ledges during the day, emerging at night to feed. Very common on shallow Caribbean reefs where they are easily observed by snorkelers and divers.

Size & Weight: Typically 6–12 inches and under 1 lb. Maximum approximately 2 lbs. World record: 2 lbs 14 oz. A brilliant red fish with horizontal white stripes and prominent spines. Named for its squirrel-like large eyes — an adaptation for nocturnal feeding. Good eating despite small size.

Best Lures: Rarely targeted with lures. Small jigs near reef structure produce incidental catches at night.

Best Baits: Small shrimp pieces are effective at night near reef structure. Small pieces of squid produce catches. Night fishing near shallow reef structure is most productive. Small hooks with light leader are appropriate for this smaller species.

Western Atlantic Ocean — from Bermuda and Florida south through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. Found around shallow coral reefs, rocky crevices, and under ledges in 10–100 feet. A very common nocturnal reef fish throughout the Caribbean and Florida Keys. One of the most recognizable small reef fish — bright red with white stripes and large eyes.

72°F–84°F. A tropical reef fish that hides in crevices and under ledges during the day, emerging at night to feed. Very common on shallow Caribbean reefs where they are easily observed by snorkelers and divers.

Best Lures: Rarely targeted with lures. Small jigs near reef structure produce incidental catches at night. Best Baits: Small shrimp pieces are effective at night near reef structure. Small pieces of squid produce catches. Night fishing near shallow reef structure is most productive. Small hooks with light leader are appropriate for this smaller species.

Typically 6–12 inches and under 1 lb. Maximum approximately 2 lbs. World record: 2 lbs 14 oz. A brilliant red fish with horizontal white stripes and prominent spines. Named for its squirrel-like large eyes — an adaptation for nocturnal feeding. Good eating despite small size.