Estuary Perch illustration
Species

Estuary Perch

Macquaria colonorum
Tier 3Eating7/10light tackleNSWVICSATAS
10 waypoints25–40 cm (max 60 cm) typical

Regulations

NSW25 cm min · bag 5VIC27 cm min · bag 5
StateSizeBag
NSW25 cm min5
VIC27 cm min5

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

Overview: about estuary perch

Close cousin of Australian bass found in coastal estuaries and lower river reaches from southern QLD to TAS. Targeted with soft plastics, hardbodies and live baits around snags, drop-offs and bridge pylons. Closed seasons protect winter spawning aggregations.

Biology: Estuary Perch size, diet & habitat

Habitat
Estuary, River
Typical size
25–40 cm (max 60 cm)
Weight
0.4–1.5 kg (max 4 kg)
Depth range
0–15 m
Diet
shrimp, small fish, insects
Most active
crepuscular
Global range
Endemic to south-east Australia (Percalates colonorum)

How to target: Estuary Perch angling strategies

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

  • small soft plastics and 50mm hardbodies along snag edges in tidal rivers
  • live shrimp under a small float at dusk
  • blade vibes hopped through deep estuary holes in winter

Best season: when to catch estuary perch in Australia

NSW
May-Sep (south coast rivers)
VIC
Mar-Sep (Gippsland Lakes)

Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions, so check recent reports before a trip.

Recent community catches: anglers who caught estuary perch

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Where to catch: estuary perch fishing spots in Australia

Victoria9
South Australia1

More information: estuary perch references & sources

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