Species
Freshwater Catfish
Tandanus tandanus
Also known as eel-tailed catfish · tandan
Tier 3Eating8/10light tackleNSWVICQLDSA
0 waypoints30–55 cm (max 90 cm) typical
Regulations
NSW30 cm min · bag 2VIC
| State | Size | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 30 cm min | 2 |
| VIC | — | — |
regional protection — verify rules | ||
Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.
Overview: about freshwater catfish
Native Murray-Darling catfish with eel-like tail, found in lowland rivers and dams. Caught on worms, yabbies and small lures fished slow on the bottom. Excellent eating but venomous pectoral and dorsal spines — handle carefully. Vulnerable in some states.
Biology: Freshwater Catfish size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Dam, River
- Typical size
- 30–55 cm (max 90 cm)
- Weight
- 0.5–4 kg
- Depth range
- 0–15 m
- Diet
- worms, crustaceans, small fish
- Most active
- nocturnal
- Global range
- Eastern Australia
How to target: Freshwater Catfish angling strategies
Generally fished with light tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- worms or shrimp on the bottom in dams
- small soft plastics worked slow on rivers
Safety & handling
In the same waters
- venomous pectoral and dorsal spines
Recent community catches: anglers who caught freshwater catfish
No freshwater catfish catches logged yet. Log one and you'll be recognised here.
More information: freshwater catfish references & sources
Saved.