Southern Calamari illustration
Species

Southern Calamari

Sepioteuthis australis
Also known as southern reef squid
Tier 2Eating10/10ultralight tackleNSWVICSAWATAS
181 waypoints15–30 cm (max 60 cm) typical

Regulations

NSWbag 20VICbag 10SAbag 15TASbag 15
StateSizeBag
NSW—20
VIC—10
SA—15
TAS—15

Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.

Overview: about southern calamari

Southern-Australian squid found over seagrass and reef flats from southern QLD around to WA. Targeted with squid jigs cast from boats, jetties and rock walls — clearer water and weed beds are key. Top table fish and an outstanding bait for snapper and mulloway.

Biology: Southern Calamari size, diet & habitat

Habitat
Estuary, Inshore, Reef
Typical size
15–30 cm (max 60 cm)
Weight
0.3–1.5 kg (max 4 kg)
Depth range
0–70 m
Diet
small fish, crustaceans
Most active
cathemeral
Global range
Southern Australia

How to target: Southern Calamari angling strategies

Generally fished with ultralight tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.

  • squid jigs (size 2.5-3.5) cast over seagrass flats and twitched back
  • split-shotted squid jigs under a float at jetties at night under lights
  • slow trolling jigs behind a small dinghy in 3-8m of weed

Safety & handling

Hold pointing away — will ink and bite.

Recent community catches: anglers who caught southern calamari

No southern calamari catches logged yet. Log one and you'll be recognised here.

Where to catch: southern calamari fishing spots in Australia

South Australia74
Victoria40
Tasmania32
Western Australia22
New South Wales11
Queensland2

More information: southern calamari references & sources

Log catch