Common Name:  Goatfish,

Local Name:  Manitis (Tagalog); Timbungan (Cebuano)

Max Size:  35 cm

Biodiversity: Marine, Reef-associated

Depth: 1 – 80 meters

Fishing Season:  All Year Long

Minimum Size Limit:  None

Recommended Bait/Lures:  Shrimp, crabs, worms, other small crustaceans

IUCN Red List Status Status:  Not Listed

Here is another species of Goatfish found throughout the Philippine Islands.  Goatfish are a sought after food fish due to their white flesh. Fish like this are said to be good for people who are sick. The fish above was speared at night in Catmon, Cebu.

Goatfish caught deep sea fishing in Cebu

Common Name:  Goatfish, Cinnabar Goatfish,

Local Name:  ?? (Tagalog); Timbungan (Cebuano)

Max Size:  36 cm

Biodiversity: Marine, Brackish, Reef-associated

Depth: 12 – 350 meters

Fishing Season:  All Year Long

Minimum Size Limit:  None

Recommended Bait/Lures:  Shrimp, crabs, other small crustaceans

IUCN Red List Status Status:  Not Listed

Goatfish are abundant here in Philippine waters and can be caught all over the country at both shallow and deep depths.  These fish normally are found in pairs or small groups foraging over sandy,  mucky, and rocky bottoms or sea grass. The one pictured above was taken on pealed shrimp bait fishing at around 100m.  Goatfish are fairly good to eat though they do have a slightly fishy taste.