Black Jewfish
Black jewfish caught at the lodge usually weigh more than 10 kg and fish to 30 kg can be caught. Jewies tend to congregate around wrecks and other rough bottom structure and, with their size and power, are a real challenge on all but the heaviest tackle. Big tide movements limit jewie fishing to neap tide periods or slack water at the top and bottom of the tides when it is possible to get baits to the bottom and hold them there. Drop the bait to the bottom on the wreck or reef, lift the bait a metre or so and hang on!
| Other Names: | Prontonibea diacanthus, Spotted jewfish, Jewfish, Jewie |
| Location: | All round the coast including close inshore, in the estuaries and up in the larger rivers wherever there are deep holes and bottom structure such as reefs. |
| Season: | Year-round, but December and January are prime months. |
| Method: | The size and strength of these fish make them a very big challenge on light tackle and many are lost. Local anglers tend to use heavy handlines. Lines of at least 60 kg breaking strain are recommended as they cut into anglers’ hands less than lines with smaller diameter. These are large, powerful fish and a violent encounter can be expected on heavy handlines so gloves are recommended. Rods can be used successfully in areas where the bottom is more open but long powerful runs can be expected, so reels with large line capacity are best. Jewfish will take lures readily but are rarely found in waters shallow enough for successful lure fishing. Fresh whole squid or oily fish baits are most productive. |
| Regulations: | A personal possession limit of five black jewfish per person must be observed. |
| Eating: | Black jewfish, even the larger specimens, are excellent eating with white to pale pink flesh with large flakes. Usually they have little oil and a distinct flavour. |
