Atlantic Angelfish

Atlantic Angelfish, also known as Spadefish and Moonfish, lives in brackish, coastal waters in warmer climates. They tend to live near the coastline but can also be found around structures, reefs and shipwrecks. The most effective technique for catching Atlantic Anglefish is bait fishing using clams placed on a small circular hook.

Atlantic Angel Fish or Spadefish

Region: Northeast, South
Habitat: Ocean, Bay, Coastal Waters

How to identify Atlantic Angelfish

The Atlantic angelfish has a body that is flat and somewhat rounded. The head and small mouth blend into the body, which has peaking anal and dorsal fins. Mature fish are silver with gray hues, while juveniles are black. Sometimes juveniles are mistaken as another species of fish because of their overall black color. Atlantic angelfish have 3-6 black markings that run vertically along its body from the eye to the caudal peduncle.

Where to catch Atlantic Angelfish

Atlantic angelfish can be found in schools from the coastlines of Brazil to New England, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. They tend to stay close to shipwrecks, reefs, and pilings. Young fish stick to the shallow waters of estuaries where they often bob at an angle to mimic a dead leaf in the water.

Range: Northeast, South
Atlantic Angelfish Fishing Map

It’s difficult to hook an Atlantic angelfish due to its tiny mouth. They are very particular about what they’ll eat. A good technique to use for catching them is to place a weighted, wire basket in the water and use chum to get them to come close to the boat. Then, you can use a hook and line to catch them.

The following are habitats where you can catch Atlantic Angelfish:

How to catch Atlantic Angelfish

It’s difficult to hook an Atlantic angelfish due to its tiny mouth. They are very particular about what they’ll eat. A good technique to use for catching them is to place a weighted, wire basket in the water and use chum to get them to come close to the boat. Then, you can use a hook and line to catch them.

The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Atlantic Angelfish:

Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Atlantic Angelfish

Atlantic angelfish respond well to strips of clam or jellyfish tentacles. Anglers using the chumming technique may also be able to get them to hit on a fly that is tossed out near the chum line.

The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Atlantic Angelfish: