Overview
Gummy sharks cruise sand and mud bottoms in southern bays and offshore waters, hunting crabs, squid and small fish by scent.
They have crushing plates rather than teeth, so a heavy mono leader rather than wire is standard.
They are excellent eating, sold commercially as flake, and are one of Australia's better-managed shark fisheries.
Where to find them
- ▸Sand and mud bottom in 10–40 m in southern bays.
- ▸Channel edges in large estuaries at night.
- ▸Beach gutters on southern surf coasts.
- ▸Around berley trails at anchor after dark.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7' boat rod rated 10–15 kg.
- ▸Line: 30 lb braid with 60–80 lb mono leader.
- ▸Rig: running sinker to a 6/0–8/0 circle with fresh squid, salmon or trevally fillet.
Tips from the water
- ▸Fresh oily bait outfishes frozen every time.
- ▸Use mono, not wire — gummies do not bite through it and you get more bites.
- ▸Fish the run-out tide after dark for the best results.
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.