Habitat
Found in shallow sand and muddy estuaries, lagoons and inshore areas.
Fishing information
This is the largest of the flatheads in Australia. In Tasmania, it is sometimes confused with other flathead including the southern bluespotted flathead because of its size. Not common in most parts of Tasmania, it is reported to occur in small numbers around Flinders Island and the north coast but there have been no confirmed identifications. They can be taken from a boat or from shore as they are known to come into shallow waters including river mouths and estuaries. Duskies are usually targeted using hard or soft bodies lures or bait.
Handling
Beware of short, sharp spines on the flathead’s gill covers and dorsal fin.
Cooking
Low oil content with a pleasant, sweet flavour. Fine textured flesh which can dry out slightly with some cooking methods but remains moist and flaky when cooked in batter. The long shape of flathead means that it fillets well as most of the bones are at the head section of the fish. Also retains moisture well when cooked as whole fish. Suitable to bake in foil, shallow or deep fry, marinate, poach or steam.
Flathead Fact Sheets
How to Increase the Survival of Released Flathead
How to Release Flathead using a Fish De-hooker