|
(Click for large pic. 23Kb)
The Pilchard, a close relative of the Herrings, is a plankton feeder in open ocean waters of our southern coastline. It forms dense shoals in midwinter off our south surfing beaches, at which time it spawns. The back is bright steel blue; the sides are silver, and bear a series of dark spots. In more southern States it is taken by purse-seining for canning; in Queensland it is popular bait fish among the tailor fishermen.
Although growing to a length of 230 mm (9 inches), it is more generally taken at 125 180 mm (5 to 7 inches). In recent years this species has achieved prominence as one of the best baits for Mackerel in southern Queensland coastal waters, and is highly regarded by reef fishermen seeking large Snapper and Sweetlip. Because of' the soft nature of the oily body, Pilchards are best presented on a gang of three or four linked (or chained) hooks.
Almost all Pilchards used in the Queensland bait trade are imported frozen from Western Australia.
|
){kind=small}
