Overview
Snook patrol shallow seagrass beds and sand channels across southern Australia, ambushing garfish and small squid.
They are aggressive lure eaters and provide excellent light-tackle sport in water so shallow you can see them strike.
Their teeth are formidable, so a short heavy leader or light wire saves lures.
Where to find them
- ▸Seagrass flats in 1–4 m.
- ▸Sand channels running between weed beds.
- ▸Around jetties and boat moorings at dusk.
- ▸Sheltered bays in the cooler months.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7' spin rated 2–5 kg.
- ▸Line: 10–15 lb braid with 30–40 lb fluorocarbon bite leader.
- ▸Lures: 90–120 mm shallow minnows, surface walkers, whole gar on ganged hooks.
Tips from the water
- ▸Troll a shallow minnow over the weed until you find a fish, then cast the area.
- ▸Use a heavier bite leader than feels necessary.
- ▸Excellent eating fresh but the flesh softens quickly — ice immediately.
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.