In the Eastern Pacific from California to Peru resides a powerful inshore predator, the Roosterfish . They are often found in the waters off Mexico, Panama, and Costa Rica. The beautiful fish with their comb like 'rooster' dorsals are a top notch battle on light/medium tackle. While closely related to the Jack family, the Roosterfish happens to be the only fish in the genus Nematistius and the family Nematistiidae.
Roosters are great predators in the shallows and inshore waters that will attack and hunt and great numbers. These great sportfish will gather bait up and trap them in the shallows allowing for a relentless attack where prey hardly escape. Over the past couple decades, area's like Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Costa Rica have all attracted anglers of all experiences to come and take part in the action. While quite edible, these fish are often better released to fight another day. There are not too many inshore fish that will pound for pound put up such a sporty fight.
Roosterfish may grow as large as 4' and top 100lbs. Even the smaller of the mix will fight like true brutes on matched tackle. While locals will often target fish like Roosters on a minimal commercial scale, a great catch-and-release promotion has been accepted through much of Central and North America. While not immediately threatened, their numbers are currently stable and as long as responsible anglers and harvesters condone appropriate action, this fishery will thrive for generations to come.
The PELAGIC OCEAN CONSERVANCY PROJECT
We are proud to present the Ocean Conservancy Project which was materialized to show appreciation for the great world of sportfishing and to understand and protect the incredible species that inhabit it. The OCP will feature some great art and prints by some of the top photographers and artists in the world. Among these are Pelagic's own Tony Ludovico .
Here is an inshore addition to the Ocean Conservancy Project as we introduce the powerhorse Roosterfish .
About the Photo
A Roosterfish is a fairly common species in inshore waters of much of the Pacific. They are true brutes for their size and will test the limits of any light and medium tackle. Their iconic 'rooster' fins make them a very distinguishable and attractive species in the marine world.
This photo was taken off the coast of Cabo San Lucas in Mexico. It was once again another hot strenuating morning on the Pacific and Ludovico and crew were out to capture a great variety of fish and wildlife on film. While inshore, the boys were suddenly 'ambushed' by several large Roosterfish. Tony saw his chance to jump in and take advantage of the Rooster's curiosity. Little did he know that he would capture a rare photo of a Roosterfish in its natural hunting element.
With each Purchase of one of Tony's prints, a portion of proceeds gets donated courtesy of the Ocean Conservancy Project to help educate and protect our fishery for future generations to enjoy.
Roosterfish by Tony Ludovico (Order Print )
You may purchase this print directly from Pelagic Gear by clicking HERE
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