WikiCatch
Western school sillago
Sillago bassensis
Overview
The southern school whiting ,also known as the silver whiting or trawl whiting, is a common species of coastal marine fish of the smelt-whiting family that inhabits the south and south-west coasts of Australia. Its distribution overlaps a number of other common sillaginids, with careful observation of anatomical features occasionally needed to distinguish between species. The southern school whiting is closely related to the eastern school whiting, Sillago flindersi, and initially were thought to be all one species. The species inhabits both shallow inshore sandy waters, as well as deeper offshore waters, with a transition of habitats occurring with increasing age. It is a predatory fish, taking a variety of crustaceans, polychaetes and bivalves as prey. It reaches sexual maturity at three years of age, and spawns multiple times between December and April. The southern school whiting is commonly caught by commercial and recreational fishermen, often while fishing for related species, especially the sought after King George whiting. The species is marketed fresh in southern Australia.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Beach Worms
Excellent all-around bait.
- Squid
Use small pieces on a hook.
- Prawns
Peel for best results.
- Bass Yabbies
A local favorite for larger sillago.
- Cockles
Thread onto a small hook.
Artificial Lures
- Daiwa Gekkabijin Beam Stick 1.5"Soft PlasticBuy
Effective on a jighead.
- Ecogear ZX40VibeBuy
Cast and retrieve slowly.
- Savage Gear Fat Minnow T-Tail 6.5cmSoft PlasticBuy
Great imitation of a fleeing baitfish.
- Halco Twisty 20gSpoonBuy
Cast far into deeper water.
- Strike Pro Cyber Vibe 45VibeBuy
Work it close to the bottom.
Techniques
Use light line and small hooks for best results, as sillago have delicate mouths and can be easily spooked.
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Where to Find Western school sillago
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Western school sillago?+
Popular baits for Western school sillago include Beach Worms, Squid, Prawns, Bass Yabbies, Cockles. Tip: Use light line and small hooks for best results, as sillago have delicate mouths and can be easily spooked.
Where can I catch Western school sillago?+
Western school sillago can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Western Australia, Australia; Tasmania, Australia. WikiCatch lists 2 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Western school sillago get?+
Western school sillago (Sillago bassensis) can reach up to 33.0000013 cm in length and 1.0378 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is NE.
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