Plectropomus leopardus

P. leopardus is one of the two largest species of coral trout with P. laevis.

This fish is intensively red, but green under water, and covered with bright blue spots. Its pectoral fin is transparent and often it has no dots on the belly. Its eye is circled in blue. Like all coral trouts it can change color but in principle is not as mottled as P. areolatus with which it could be confused.

It can also be confused with P. laevis but the latter has the eye placed higher, smaller, not circled in blue, and the skull is more angular.

Considered near threatened (NT), it is nowadays not common, especially individuals of good size. It usually plays hide and seek with you in the reef.

It’s not an easy catch. It is hunted through direct approach or stalking in the reef and in areas rarely fished it will often end up turning if you follow it. It requires a speargun with a good range. Wait until the fish is on a sandy bottom before pulling the trigger. When stalking, do not hesitate to wait as long as you can, the fish might overcome its fear and come a little bit closer.

P. leopardus is like all its delicious congeners to consume grilled or raw. Despite its apparent nonchalance, it’s not an easy one. Above 3-4 kg, it’s a beautiful catch.