Overview
John dory hover almost motionless near reef and structure, stalking small fish before engulfing them with an enormous protrusible mouth.
They are usually caught as bycatch while snapper or kingfish fishing with live yakkas or slimies.
Their fillets are thin but exceptional, which is why they command high prices commercially.
Where to find them
- ▸Reef edges and drop-offs in 20–60 m.
- ▸Around jetty and wharf pylons in deep harbours.
- ▸Bait schools holding tight to structure.
- ▸Kelp edges on southern reef.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7' spin rated 4–8 kg.
- ▸Line: 20 lb braid with 25 lb fluorocarbon.
- ▸Bait: small live yakka or slimy on a 3/0 circle; slow-worked 4" plastics.
Tips from the water
- ▸Fish a live bait just above the structure and wait — dory take slowly.
- ▸Do not strike hard; let the circle hook load up.
- ▸Fillet carefully; the frame carries a lot of the weight.
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.