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

Introduction

Hardy heads, also known as silversides, are small, slender fish with a silvery body and a greenish or bluish tinge on their backs. They typically grow to lengths of 10-15 cm and have two dorsal fins. These fish are found in schools in coastal waters, estuaries, and sometimes in freshwater systems.

Hardy heads are an important part of the marine ecosystem, serving as prey for larger fish and birds. They feed primarily on small invertebrates, plankton, and algae. Their schooling behavior provides protection from predators and makes them an attractive target for anglers looking for bait fish.

In Victoria, hardy heads can be found in various coastal areas, including Port Phillip Bay, Western Port, and the Gippsland Lakes. They prefer areas with seagrass beds, sandy bottoms, or rocky reefs. These fish are known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of salinities, which allows them to thrive in diverse environments.

Fishing for hardy heads can be an enjoyable experience, especially for beginners or those looking to catch bait. They can be caught using light tackle and small hooks, making them accessible to anglers of all skill levels. While not typically targeted for sport fishing, they can be used as live bait for larger predatory species.

What restrictions are in place for Hardy Head fishing in Melbourne?

When fishing for hardy heads in Victoria, anglers should be aware of the following rules and restrictions:

1. There is no minimum legal size for hardy heads.
2. A combined bag limit of 40 fish applies, which can include one or more species of hardy heads, except for Murray hardyhead and unspecked hardyhead.
3. Anglers must have a valid Victorian fishing license unless exempt.
4. Always check for any local fishing restrictions or closures in the area you plan to fish.
5. Practice responsible fishing by adhering to bag limits and releasing any unwanted fish carefully.

How to catch Hardy Head

To catch hardy heads in Victoria, use light tackle and small hooks (size 8-12) to match their small mouths. A light rod and reel combo with 2-4 lb line is ideal. Fish near the surface in shallow waters, around structures like jetties, piers, or seagrass beds. Use a float or small sinker to keep your bait at the right depth. Berley (chum) with bread or fish scraps to attract schools. Early morning or late afternoon are often the best times to fish for hardy heads. Cast your line and retrieve slowly, as these fish are not aggressive feeders. Be patient and watch for subtle bites.

What should you fish with for Hardy Head?

When it comes to fishing for Hardy Head, 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 Hardy Head, but lure fishing is common too.

For the best chances of success, try using Maggots 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 Hardy Head

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

• Maggots
• Small Fish
• Shrimp
• Whitebait
• Bread
• Corn

The Top 3 Lures to Use for Hardy Head

If you're a fan of lure fishing, make sure to pack these top three performers for Hardy Head:

• Soft Plastics
• Micro Jigs
• Metal Spoon Lures

Where to catch Hardy Head in Melbourne

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

FAQs about Hardy Head fishing in Melbourne