WikiCatch
Saddletail grouper

Saddletail grouper

Epinephelus daemelii

Family
Serranidae
Max Length
200 cm
Max Weight
68 kg
IUCN Status
NT
Water Type
saltwater
Fishing Spots
11

Overview

The saddletail grouper, also known as black cod or black rock-cod in Australia, and as saddle-tailed grouper or spotted black grouper in New Zealand, is a large marine fish of the family Serranidae. It is found off the coastline of southeastern Australia and northern New Zealand, generally inhabiting near-shore rock and coral reefs at depths down to 50 metres. Its main range comprises the southeast coastline of Australia, in the state of New South Wales; New Zealand populations are suspected to be nonbreeding, so are a result of drifting larvae. However, spawning aggregations have been recorded off northern New Zealand.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Live Prawns

    Excellent for enticing strikes, especially near structures.

  • Live Small Fish

    Yellowtail Scad or slimy mackerel are very effective.

  • Live Squid

    A highly desirable bait for larger saddletail grouper.

  • Pilchards

    Used live or as cut bait, very attractive.

Artificial Lures

  • Rapala X-Rap Magnum 20Trolling Minnow

    Trolled deep, a proven grouper catcher.

    Buy
  • Halco Outcast 80Metal Jig

    Jigged vertically, very effective in deeper water.

    Buy
  • ZMan MinnowZSoft Plastic

    Rigged on a jighead, bounce it along the bottom.

    Buy
  • Daiwa Saltiga Slider 160FStickbait

    Walk-the-dog action can entice surface strikes.

    Buy
  • Nomad DTX Minnow 200Trolling Minnow

    Trolled at mid depths. Tough enough for big fish.

    Buy

Techniques

Target areas around reefs, wrecks, and drop-offs with strong current, and use heavy tackle to prevent being reefed.

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Where to Find Saddletail grouper

New South Wales, Australia5 spotsQueensland, Australia3 spotsWestern Australia, Australia1 spotsVictoria, Australia1 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Saddletail grouper?+

Popular baits for Saddletail grouper include Live Prawns, Live Small Fish, Live Squid, Pilchards, Rapala X-Rap Magnum 20. Tip: Target areas around reefs, wrecks, and drop-offs with strong current, and use heavy tackle to prevent being reefed.

Where can I catch Saddletail grouper?+

Saddletail grouper can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include New South Wales, Australia; Queensland, Australia; Western Australia, Australia. WikiCatch lists 11 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Saddletail grouper get?+

Saddletail grouper (Epinephelus daemelii) can reach up to 200 cm in length and 68 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NT.

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