Species guide
How to catch West African ladyfish
Elops lacerta
The West African ladyfish is an elongated, strong predator found in coastal and brackish waters. It feeds mainly on small fish and crustaceans and can reach up to one meter in length. This species is prized by anglers for its fighting ability and is commonly found from tidal rivers to the continental shelf edge.
Where they live
Found in shallow coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms, often entering brackish estuaries and lower river reaches along the West African Atlantic coast. Ranges from inshore areas up tidal rivers to the continental shelf edge.
Typical size
Up to about 100 cm
What they eat
- small clupeid fishes
- crustaceans
- molluscs
- insects (larger specimens)
Best baits
- small fish strips
- shrimp
- crustacean bait
Best lures
- small spoons
- soft plastic jerkbaits
- metal jigs
How to fish for them
- casting from shore
- light tackle spinning
- bait fishing in estuaries
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