Species
Rock Cod
Epinephelus spp.
Also known as Epinephelus
Tier 4Eating8/10light tackleNSWVICQLDSATAS
1 waypoint~25–40 cm typical
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Range & spots
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Overview: about rock cod
General term for several inshore reef cod species across Australia — estuary cod, flowery cod, black-tipped cod and others. Targeted with bait and jigs over reef and rocky structure. Aggressive ambush feeders that head straight into the reef; bigger species are tightly regulated.
Biology: Rock Cod size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Inshore, Reef
- Typical size
- 25–40 cm (max 55 cm)
- Weight
- 0.5–2 kg (max 4 kg)
- Depth range
- 5–200 m
- Diet
- small fish, crabs, prawns
- Most active
- nocturnal
- Global range
- Various species — temperate scorpionfish/red rock cod (Scorpaena spp.) and northern reef cod
How to target: Rock Cod angling strategies
Generally fished with light tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- squid or strip baits on a paternoster over rubble reef
- small soft plastics dropped onto rocky bottom
Best season: when to catch rock cod in Australia
No seasonal pattern for rock cod yet. Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions — check state fisheries advice and recent local reports before planning a trip.
Where to catch: rock cod fishing spots in Australia
One mapped fishing location for rock cod across Australia, covering land-based fishing and rock fishing. Each location below links through to access notes and coordinates.