Can't catch a stubborn wrasse!

[Just Jim]

I ripped out all my rockwork to remove a sick fish and took them all out except for one yellow coris wrasse. I dug through the sand and just couldn't find it. After putting all the rock back, it showed up again. For the past 4 days I've had various size bottle traps come up unsuccessful. The problem is, my 240g tank is lush with critters. It's perfectly happy eating small serpent stars and pods. I've decided I need another way to catch this fish. I've contemplated using a fishing hook and line, but doubt I could come up with anything that small. Is there anything I can do to knock this fish out? I would hate to kill it, but big picture that may be an option I'll have to consider. I have a TON of coral so I don't have a lot of room to maneuver.

 

[MondoBongo]

I had good success catching my six line using a fish trap with a drop style door made from acrylic. It took several days, buy eventually with patience and some food he couldnt resist, I nabbed him.

 

[davidfrances]

A size 22 or 24 fly hook is the right size for a yellow coris wrasse. You can buy them at most stores that specialize in fly fishing. Bend the barb down and Bait with a small piece of krill. Works like a charm and is minimally damaging. You may catch some of your other fish while attempting it.

 

[Just Jim]

I ordered some small netting like the type I made my screen tops with. I'm going to try to section of the tank and catch him up. I would try the hook and bait, but this wrasse is pretty small and I don't think I can get him to take the krill and get him hooked. If the screen trap doesn't work than I'll try the hook and bait. If there was a powerbait type than I'd give that a try, but it only likes flake and meat.