Overview
Giant herring are the tarpon of northern Australia: chrome, all muscle, and capable of half a dozen clean jumps from a single hookup.
They cruise shallow flats, creek mouths and beaches, often in small packs chasing prawns and hardyheads.
They are poor eating, which is precisely why they are one of the great sport species — everyone releases them.
Where to find them
- ▸Sand flats and creek mouths on a rising tide.
- ▸Tropical beaches at first light.
- ▸Around bait schools in shallow harbour water.
- ▸Drain mouths in mangrove systems on the run-out.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 3–5 kg spin, 7 ft.
- ▸Reel: 2500–4000 spin.
- ▸Line: 15–20 lb braid with 30 lb leader.
- ▸Terminal: 20–40 g chrome slugs, small stickbaits, or 8-weight fly gear.
Tips from the water
- ▸Retrieve fast — they will chase down anything moving quickly.
- ▸Bow the rod on their jumps or they will throw the hook.
- ▸Handle them wet and release them quickly; they bruise easily.
Regulations
Generally taken as catch and release; poor eating quality means most are returned.