Systems and methods for monitoring signals in an optical fiber amplifier system are provided. The optical amplifier system includes a tapered fiber bundle which couples optical energy into the cladding of an optical amplifier. A signal passing through the optical amplifier is amplified. To monitor the amplified signal, a single fiber of a tapered fiber bundle may be used as a monitor fiber. Alternatively, a monitor or coupler may be integrated into the tapered fiber bundle during manufacturing. The systems and methods disclosed allow for monitoring the amplified signal without increasing the length of the amplified signal's path, thus minimizing the introduction of additional non-linearities.