This is a species that is rarely caught by Port Fairy anglers as it is disinclined to bite on conventional baits.  However, I understand it is reasonably common on the deeper coastal reefs close in-shore adjacent to Port Fairy.  It more than likely would inhabit ground where the species 'Sweep' are caught.  Perhaps recreational anglers would catch this fish if saltwater worms and small hooks were used to specifically seek them out in this type of territory, but I have never put this theory to the test.  Boarfish are regarded as a very good table fish.

Suprisingly, the bag limit is only 1 fish per day, and I assume that such a small number is in place to prevent spear fishermen from having an adverse affect on their numbers, as I am informed that they are very easy to spear.

All are sub-species of the same family of fishes and commonly known locally and elsewhere as "Rock Cod".  One does not normally set out to specifically target these fish and they are more of an incidental capture, however, they do exist in reasonable numbers in Port Fairy waters.  They will be found in the Moyne River but mainly at or very close to the entrance.  They are also caught from boats outside with some bigger examples being caught in water deep offshore.  Numbers caught are greater of a night time especially during the colder months of the year.  They are not fussy eaters and will virtually take all the commercially packaged baits.

As their flesh is soft, they are generally not esteemed for eating, however, I am told that if fillets are refrigerated for a day or two prior to cooking this does firm the flesh and improve the eating quality.

Currently, the minimum legal size for these fish is 22cm and the bag/possession limit is 40.

Another species that is rarely fished for specifically but are an incidental capture from time to time.  Often they are more prevalent at dusk and into the night hours.  They will virtually take all of the commercially packaged baits, and a sound method of capture is to either fish unweighted or only lightly so, allowing baits to slowly descend.  Hooks in the order of size 2 down should be used.  Areas where you may run into these fish are around the buoy in around 10-15 meters of water.

They are not highly regarded for eating purposes but do make excellent bait for other species including Australian Salmon, Snapper, etc.  Currently, there is no minimum legal size and the bag/possession limit is 40. 

Prepared by K.G.