Fish
Epinephelus fasciatus ・ Epinephelidae (Groupers)
It switches on once the water passes twenty degrees in early summer, and is thickest from high summer into autumn. In southern Kyushu and the Nansei islands the sea never really cools, so it is available almost all year. Its range has crept north, and it is now a genuine target off Izu and Boso too.
A southern reef fish, red with several dark bars. Warming seas have been pushing its range steadily northward in recent years.
Rig a soft plastic on a jighead of around fourteen grams, cast to the edge of the rock and retrieve while regularly finding the bottom again. It feeds in daylight, so time your session by the tide rather than by dawn and dusk.
Waters: Southern Pacific coast, East China Sea & western Kyushu, Okinawa & Nansei Islands
From a boat, work rocky ground in thirty to eighty metres and keep the jig within five metres of the seabed. It will not chase a fast lift, so hold a steady rhythm and never let the jig climb too far.
Waters: Southern Pacific coast, East China Sea & western Kyushu, Okinawa & Nansei Islands
Hole fishing kit ・ Kit total ¥12,000–28,000
The cheapest tackle but the most dangerous footing. Do not skip the studded boots or the life jacket, and never step on wet tetrapods.
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This fish is dangerous to handle bare-handed.
Sharp spines
The dorsal spines are stiff and the edge of the gill cover is sharp. No venom has been established for it, but a puncture can swell and become infected. On the rocks one hand is always occupied, so pin the fish properly with a grip before you touch the hook.
Dangerous fish and animals — what to do when you are stung or bitten
Good as sashimi, simmered, in a hotpot or deep-fried. The white flesh is firm and the head and frame give a rich stock. Searing the skin brings out its scent, so yakishimo-zukuri suits it.
Best eating: June–September
Check the local prefectural fishery regulation. Many rock marks are managed by a ferry operator or the local community, so follow their instructions on access.
Closed seasons and size limits — how to find the numbers, which differ by prefecture
This article organises general information and is not legal advice. Rules differ by municipality and by fishery cooperative, and they change. Always check the current rules for where you are going.
Seasons, sizes and eating quality are general guides. Rules change, so check the latest prefectural, fishery-cooperative and site rules before fishing. This app provides general information, not legal advice.