How Do I Catch a Fish in My Reef Tank Without Destroying the Aquascape?

Every reef keeper eventually faces the challenge of catching a fish in an established tank - whether for quarantine, aggression issues, or rehoming. Here's how to do it without tearing apart your carefully built aquascape.

Method 1: Fish Trap (Recommended)

Fish traps are the least stressful option for both you and your livestock:

• Commercial traps work well for most fish
• DIY traps can be made from plastic containers
• Bait with the target fish's favorite food
• May take 2-7 days - patience is key
• Train fish to enter by feeding inside the trap (door open) for a few days first

Method 2: Night Netting

Fish are less reactive when the lights are off:

• Wait 1-2 hours after lights out
• Use a red flashlight (fish can't see red well)
• Move slowly and steadily
• Have a second person help corner the fish
• Works best for fish that sleep in the open

Method 3: Two-Net Technique

Use two nets strategically:

• Hold one net still as a "wall"
• Use the second to guide fish toward the stationary net
• Less chasing = less stress

What NOT to Do

• Don't chase aggressively - Exhausted fish can die from stress
• Don't remove all rockwork - Disrupts biological filtration and stresses corals
• Don't use chemicals - They can harm invertebrates and corals
• Don't give up after one try - The trap method always works eventually

Tips for Success

• Fast the tank 24-48 hours before trapping (hungrier fish)
• Remove competing food sources
• Be patient - rushing leads to damaged corals and stressed fish
• Consider removing just a few rocks if absolutely necessary

Need to rehome or sell your fish? List it on the ReefBay marketplace once you've caught it!