Species
Dusky Flathead
Platycephalus fuscus
Also known as black flathead · estuary flathead · lizard
Tier 1Eating9/10light tackleNSWVICQLD
0 waypoints40–70 cm (max 130 cm) typical
Regulations
NSW36 cm min · bag 5QLD40 cm min · bag 5
| State | Size | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 36 cm min | 5 |
max size 70 cm — fish over 70 must be released | ||
| QLD | 40 cm min | 5 |
max size 75 cm | ||
Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.
Overview: about dusky flathead
Iconic east-coast estuary ambush predator from southern QLD to eastern VIC and the biggest of the flatheads — fish over a metre are realistic targets. Soft plastics and shallow hardbodies worked over weed edges, drop-offs and sand flats produce best. Slot limits apply in NSW and QLD to protect big breeders.
Biology: Dusky Flathead size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Estuary, Flats, Inshore
- Typical size
- 40–70 cm (max 130 cm)
- Weight
- 0.6–4 kg
- Depth range
- 0–25 m
- Diet
- small fish, prawns, squid
- Most active
- diurnal
- Global range
- Western Pacific (eastern Australia)
How to target: Dusky Flathead angling strategies
Generally fished with light tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- soft plastics on 1/4-3/8 oz jigheads worked along drop-offs
- shallow diving hardbodies trolled over flats
- live mullet or poddy mullet under floats
Best season: when to catch dusky flathead in Australia
- NSW
- Oct-Apr
- QLD
- Sep-May
Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions, so check recent reports before a trip.
Safety & handling
In the same waters
- venomous dorsal and opercular spines — handle with care
Recent community catches: anglers who caught dusky flathead
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More information: dusky flathead references & sources
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