Species
Yellowtail Kingfish
Seriola lalandi
Also known as kingie · hoodlum · yellowtail
Tier 1Eating9/10heavy tackleNSWVICQLDSAWATAS
0 waypoints60–110 cm (max 200 cm) typical
Regulations
NSW65 cm min · bag 5VIC60 cm min · bag 5SA60 cm min · bag 1
| State | Size | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 65 cm min | 5 |
| VIC | 60 cm min | 5 |
| SA | 60 cm min | 1 |
Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.
Overview: about yellowtail kingfish
Premier east and southern-coast pelagic, found from southern QLD round to WA and a flagship gamefish for Sydney, Jervis Bay, Eden and Port Lincoln. Targeted with live yakka and squid, deep jigs and stickbaits around reef, FADs and the shelf break. Strict slot limits and possession rules in most states.
Biology: Yellowtail Kingfish size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Inshore, Reef, Shelf
- Typical size
- 60–110 cm (max 200 cm)
- Weight
- 3–25 kg
- Depth range
- 0–300 m
- Diet
- fish, squid
- Global range
- Circumglobal in temperate seas
How to target: Yellowtail Kingfish angling strategies
Generally fished with heavy tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.
- live yakkas or squid drifted on inshore reef
- deep mechanical jigs along the shelf
- stickbaits cast at surface schools
Best season: when to catch yellowtail kingfish in Australia
- NSW
- Oct-May
- VIC
- Dec-Apr
- SA
- Dec-Apr (Spencer Gulf)
Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions, so check recent reports before a trip.
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More information: yellowtail kingfish references & sources
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