Gemfish

Gemfish
© Tasmanian Government. Image Peter Gouldthorpe
Season: Open all year

bag limit5

 

possession limit10

 

boat limit-

Guide to symbols

bagBag Limit
housePossession Limit
boatBoat Limit

Minimum size

None
Measuring

Most scalefish are measured from the nose to the end of the tail. Get your scalefish measuring ruler or sticker at any Service Tasmania outlet.

Other names

silver gemfish, king barracouta, deepsea kingfish, barraconda, hake


Scientific name

Rexea solandri

Grows to


Up to

1.2m and 10kg

Identifying features


​Gemfish have a moderately elongate body coloured blue to bronze on the top and silver below which turns to blueish purple when landed. They have a large spot at the beginning of dorsal fin. They have a large mouth with fang-like teeth toward the front.

​Habitat

Found in waters of 100 to 1000 metres in waters surrounding Tasmania.

Fishing information

This bottom dwelling fish is likely to be encountered by recreational fishers when droplining or using electric reels in deep water.

Handling

These fish have some very sharp canine teeth and dorsal spines which should be respected even when the fish is dead.

Cooking

Gemfish produce large white fillets with a delicate flavour which are excellent eating when grilled, baked, fried or steamed.
Recipe: Great as kebabs made by placing diced cubes on skewers. Baste with marinade and cook on the barbeque.

Hotline

Fishwatch Report illegal fishing

0427 655 557

What to report? arrow button

Contact us

Recreational Fishing

Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

Hobart TAS 7000

Phone: (03) 6165 3233, 1300 720 647

Email: fishing.enquiries@nre.tas.gov.au

Commercial Fisheries

Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

GPO Box 44

Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

Email: commercial.fisheries@nre.tas.gov.au

Commercial Fisheries Licensing

Level 1, 134 Macquarie St

GPO Box 44

Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

Email: fishing.licensing@nre.tas.gov.au