Overview
Garfish hold just under the surface over seagrass beds and respond immediately to a berley trail of bran and fish oil.
They are a light-tackle proposition — tiny hooks, a small float and patience — and superb fun for kids off a jetty.
South Australia's gar fishery is significant enough to be commercially managed, so recreational limits are enforced.
Where to find them
- ▸Seagrass beds in 1–3 m of clear water.
- ▸Around jetties and marina lights after dark.
- ▸Sheltered bays with light current.
- ▸Estuary flats on a rising tide.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7–9 ft light float rod.
- ▸Reel: 1000–2500 spin.
- ▸Line: 4–6 lb mono.
- ▸Terminal: size 10–12 long-shank hooks under a small quill float.
Tips from the water
- ▸Berley constantly with bran, pollard and a little tuna oil.
- ▸Silverfish, maggots or tiny strips of squid all work.
- ▸Keep the bait high in the water — gars rarely feed deep.
Regulations
Bag limits apply, particularly in South Australia where the fishery is closely managed.