Gemfish Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips

Introduction

Gemfish (Rexea solandri) is a sleek, elongated fish with a distinctive silvery-blue coloration and a long, pointed snout. They typically grow to lengths of 60-100cm and can weigh up to 10kg. Gemfish are primarily found in deep offshore waters, usually at depths between 200-600 meters.

These fish are known for their strong, streamlined bodies, which allow them to be powerful swimmers in their deep-water habitats. They feed on a variety of smaller fish and squid, using their sharp teeth to capture prey.

In Victorian waters, Gemfish are more commonly encountered by commercial fishers than recreational anglers due to their deep-water habitat. However, they can sometimes be caught by recreational fishers targeting deep-water species.

Fishing for Gemfish typically involves deep-drop techniques, using heavy gear and electric reels to reach their preferred depths. They are known to be good eating fish, with firm, white flesh that’s popular in restaurants and fish markets.

What restrictions are in place for Gemfish fishing in Melbourne?

When fishing for Gemfish in Victorian waters, anglers should be aware of the following rules and restrictions:

1. Bag limit: There is a bag limit of 5 Gemfish per person per day.
2. Size limit: There is no minimum legal size for Gemfish.
3. Always check for any updates or changes to fishing regulations with the Victorian Fisheries Authority before fishing.
4. Ensure you have a valid Victorian fishing license when fishing in marine waters.
5. Use appropriate fishing gear and techniques to minimize harm to the fish and the environment.

How to catch Gemfish

To catch Gemfish in Victorian waters, deep-drop fishing techniques are most effective. Use heavy-duty fishing rods and reels, preferably electric reels, to manage the deep waters where Gemfish are found. Strong braided line (50-80lb) is recommended due to the depths involved. Paternoster rigs with multiple hooks can be effective. When fishing from a boat, use a depth sounder to locate schools of Gemfish. Drift fishing or slow trolling can be productive methods. Be prepared for the challenges of deep-water fishing, including equipment failure and fish barotrauma when brought to the surface.

What should you fish with for Gemfish?

When it comes to fishing for Gemfish, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you can find success with nearly anything when fishing for Gemfish, as both baits and lures are equally effective.

For the best chances of success, try using Pilchards as bait or fishing with a Soft Plastics. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons in your fishing area.

The Top 4 Baits to Use for Gemfish

Bait fishing for Gemfish offers a variety of options, but these four stand out as the most reliable choices:

• Pilchards
• Squid
• Whitebait
• Mackerel

The Top 4 Lures to Use for Gemfish

Lure fishing for Gemfish can be incredibly rewarding, especially when using these four top choices:

• Soft Plastics
• Jigs
• Metal Blades
• Micro Jigs

Where to catch Gemfish in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Gemfish. While we couldn't pinpoint specific hotspots, Gemfish can be found throughout Victoria. We recommend consulting local fishing authorities or experienced anglers for the most up-to-date information on prime fishing locations.

When planning your fishing trip for Gemfish, consider factors such as seasonality, local regulations, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of success.

FAQs about Gemfish fishing in Melbourne