Overview
Giant cuttlefish are found on rocky reef and weed edges across southern Australia and are best known for the enormous winter aggregation at Point Lowly in South Australia, where the species is protected.
They take squid jigs readily and provide thick, excellent-eating flesh, though many anglers release them.
Handle with care and expect a serious ink discharge.
Where to find them
- ▸Rocky reef and weed edges in 3–15 m.
- ▸Jetty pylons in southern harbours.
- ▸Sheltered bays with mixed reef and sand.
- ▸Around structure at dawn and dusk.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7'6" egi rod rated 1–3 kg.
- ▸Line: 10 lb braid with 12 lb fluorocarbon.
- ▸Jigs: size 3.0–3.5 squid jigs worked slowly.
Tips from the water
- ▸Work the jig slowly with long pauses; cuttlefish approach cautiously.
- ▸Do not lift them straight out of the water — they will ink over everything.
- ▸Respect closures: the Point Lowly aggregation area is protected.
Regulations
Size, bag and possession limits differ between states and can change each season. Check the current rules with your state fisheries authority before keeping a fish.