Fish species in Japan

Spotnape ponyfish

ヒイラギ · hiiragi
Nuchequula nuchalis

A small silver ponyfish often taken on bottom bait rigs. Its protrusible mouth and slimy, compressed body distinguish it from juvenile bream. Use short bait on a small hook.

Habitat and season

Shallow bays, harbours and estuaries over sand or mud.

Recorded fishing season: May · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep · Oct · Nov
Scientific name: Nuchequula nuchalis
Japanese name: ヒイラギ

Months are a broad guide, not a current catch forecast. Region, water temperature and local closures can change the season.

Fishing methods

Short-cast bottom fishing

A light sinker and short baited trace cover nearby sand for whiting and gobies. Long casts are not required to learn where bites occur.

Sabiki fishing

A multi-hook rig imitates tiny prey while a bait basket releases a small trail of shrimp. Fish vertically at a permitted pier rather than swinging exposed hooks through a crowd.