Species
Blackspot Tuskfish
Choerodon schoenleinii
Also known as bluebone (north WA)
Tier 2Eating9/10medium tackleNear ThreatenedQLDWANT
0 waypoints40–70 cm (max 100 cm) typical
Regulations
WA30 cm min · bag 2
| State | Size | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| WA | 30 cm min | 2 |
Pilbara region rules vary | ||
Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.
Overview: about blackspot tuskfish
Big tropical tuskfish of northern Australian reefs, the iconic WA Pilbara 'bluebone'. Caught on bait and small jigs around shallow reef edges. Outstanding table fish.
Biology: Blackspot Tuskfish size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Reef
- Typical size
- 40–70 cm (max 100 cm)
- Weight
- 1.5–12 kg
- Depth range
- 3–60 m
- Diet
- crustaceans, molluscs
- Global range
- Indo-West Pacific
How to target: Blackspot Tuskfish angling strategies
Generally fished with medium tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- squid and prawn baits over reef
- small jigs
Safety & handling
Ciguatera risk: lowAvoid eating large specimens from tropical reefs. Risk varies by region and individual fish — when in doubt, release.
Conservation
IUCN: Near Threatened
Recent community catches: anglers who caught blackspot tuskfish
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More information: blackspot tuskfish references & sources
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