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Found in the surf zone and river mouths of more southerly Queensland regions. the Tarwhine has a strong superficial resemblance to the Common Bream; however, it is simply distinguished in that its anal fin has 11 rays (sometimes 12). whilst that of the Bream has9 or fewer and in the possession of the smoothly rounded contour of the head. It is a brilliant silvery fish with flecked golden stripes running lengthwise down the sides; it grows to 1.8 kg (4lb.) in weight. and is a good table fish.
Another noticeable feature of the species becomes apparent when it is being gutted: the abdominal cavity is lined with a glossy black membrane. It bites readily on baits of Yabbies. fresh Prawns, and Sea worms; its deep body assists it in putting up a strong fight. especially when hooked in the surf.
Unusually large solitary fish 1,4 kg (3 lb.) and bigger appear to prefer to move into shallow mangrove lined backwaters and creeks. while the more abundant smaller fish are captured further downstream. Medium sized fish are particularly common in rocky gutters off southern Queensland ocean beaches often at low tide localities with barely a foot of water among the rocks; here the, bite ravenously on baits of Prawns. Garfish and Pilchards.
Unexpectedly enough. quite large Tarwhine of 1.4 kg (3 lb.) and better are line fished on the deep offshore Southern Queensland Snapper reefs where they appear to form into dense and highly localised shoals.
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