Hogfish (Lachnolaimus maximus)
- Size: Although larger specimens have been known to reach lengths of up to 30 inches, most hogfish will be in the 12 to 20 inch range and weigh 2 to 4 pounds.
- Habitat: Hogfish are commonly found in a range of habitats, including coral reefs, rocky ledges, and seagrass beds. They are also known to be associated with structures like shipwrecks and artificial reefs.
- Bait: Hogfish are normally harvested by divers using a spear due to their excellent eyesight and picky feeding behavior. They can be caught with shrimp and small crabs, but are a very rare hook and line catch.
- Tackle: Very small hooks and weights paired with extremely long and light fluorocarbon leaders are necessary when hog snapper fishing. Although inquisitive, hogfish are picky, have excellent eyesight, and are difficult to hook. Light-medium spinning tackle can be used since hogfish are not especially strong fighters.
- Food Value: Hogfish one of the best-eating fish in the sea and are often used in ceviche due to their clean, delicate, and sweet fillets.