Monchong (Pomfret)

Two species of Pomfret, also known as the Monchong in Hawaii, are harvested in small quantities by the tuna long line and bottom fish hand line fisheries. Only small quantities of monchong are available because it is not usually targeted by fishermen. The largest supply is the by-catch from the tuna long line fleet, especially boats which fish deep waters around seamounts. There are no well-defined seasonal trends in availability. Monchong can range from about 4 pounds to over 25 pounds, but the prime market sizes are fish over 12 pounds.Monchong has gained an identity as an exotic fish which can add variety to restaurant menus.