Marblefish

Marblefish
© 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

kelpie, kelpfish, sea carp, stinky groper, old boot


Scientific name

Aplodactylus arctidens

Grows to


Up to

60cm and 5.5kg

Identifying features


​Marblefish have dark green to brown mottling across their body interspersed with white spots and flecks. They have a blunt head shape, a rounded body and a large tail and pectoral fins. The mouth has small, soft, blunt ‘teeth’ characteristic of a grazing and foraging habit.

​Habitat

These fish are common around most reefs in Tasmania down to depths of 30 metres. They graze on algae but will eat invertebrates and fish flesh if the opportunity arises.

Fishing information

Marblefish are caught both on rod and line and by gillnets set over reefs in shallow coastal areas right around Tasmania. They are strong fighters if hooked on rod and line, but are not normally targeted due to their poor eating quality.

Handling

Marblefish have sharp dorsal spines which they will erect and lock in place when captured.

Cooking

These fish have a strong iodine smell when cleaned. The flesh is tough and clear and green in colour. You would probably only want to try and taste this fish once!

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