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

Introduction

Gurnard, belonging to the Triglidae family, are fascinating bottom-dwelling fish found in the coastal waters of Victoria, Australia. They are characterized by their large, bony heads and unique ‘wings’ - modified pectoral fins that they use to ‘walk’ along the seafloor and search for food. These wings also give them their alternative name, ‘sea robins’.

Gurnards are typically found in depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to about 200 meters deep. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms where they can easily camouflage and hunt for their prey, which includes small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. In Victorian waters, gurnards can be found in Port Phillip Bay, Western Port, and along the coastal areas.

These fish are known for the grunting sounds they produce using their swim bladders, which has earned them the nickname ‘crooners’. Gurnards come in various species, each with slightly different colorations, but most have reddish or brownish upper bodies with lighter undersides.

Fishing for gurnard can be an exciting experience for anglers in Victoria. They are often caught as bycatch when targeting other bottom-dwelling species but can also be specifically targeted. Gurnards are known for their firm, white flesh, which is excellent for cooking, making them a prized catch for many fishers.

What restrictions are in place for Gurnard fishing in Melbourne?

When fishing for gurnard in Victoria, anglers should be aware of the following rules:

1. There is no minimum legal size limit for gurnard.
2. The bag limit is a combined total of 10 for one or more species of gurnard.
3. Always check for any updates to fishing regulations with the Victorian Fisheries Authority before fishing.
4. Respect the marine environment and practice responsible fishing.

How to catch Gurnard

To catch gurnard in Victoria, focus on bottom fishing techniques in coastal areas, bays, and estuaries. Use a simple paternoster rig or running sinker rig with a relatively small hook (size 4 to 1/0). Fish close to the bottom where gurnards feed. Drift fishing can be effective, allowing you to cover more ground. When fishing from a boat, try around sandy patches near reefs or in areas with a mix of sand and broken ground. Shore-based anglers can target gurnards from piers, jetties, or beaches, especially during incoming tides. Be patient and wait for the distinctive ‘tapping’ bite of a gurnard.

What should you fish with for Gurnard?

When it comes to fishing for Gurnard, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you will have a bit more success with baits when fishing for Gurnard, but lure fishing is common too.

For the best chances of success, try using Prawns 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 6 Baits to Use for Gurnard

For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 6 options that have consistently produced results for Gurnard:

• Prawns
• Squid
• Pilchards
• Whitebait
• Mussels
• Sandworms

The Top 4 Lures to Use for Gurnard

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

• Soft Plastics
• Jigs
• Metal Blades
• Micro Jigs

Where to catch Gurnard in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Gurnard. While we couldn't pinpoint specific hotspots, Gurnard 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 Gurnard, consider factors such as seasonality, local regulations, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of success.

FAQs about Gurnard fishing in Melbourne