Garfish are very tubular and
slender with a readily distinguished beak-like elongation of the
lower jaw.
They usually have a silvery light blue to aquamarine coloured
back and a horizontal silver stripe along the side. Their belly
is silver and the fins are translucent.
Garfish are a popular catch within Corio bay and Port Phillip
bay. They are usually caught at or near the surface using light
tackle and a small baited hook hung under a small float.
Some handy bait to try is moistened bread, bread dough, prawns
and sandworms, and bread is also used as a berley.
There are catch limits and size limits
on most fish caught in Victorian waters. Please
check the regulations before setting out.
Anglers catch garfish throughout the year the best time to catch
these long beaked creatures is late in the summer and early
autumn.
Garfish are fantastic eating, but watch for the fine bones. Their
flesh is sweet and they have a firm texture. They are usually
grilled with a few drops of lemon juice and herb or lightly
fried with a light coat of flour.
LOCAL FISHING
