Red Velvetfish

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

bag limit2

 

possession limit4

 

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


Scientific name

Gnathancanthus goetzii

Grows to


Up to

32cm

Identifying features


​The body is a mottled red to brown colour, fins translucent towards the ends with reddish tinge. This fish is brightly coloured when removed from the sea but quite a dull orange underwater in its natural habitat. This fish has no scales but a velvety skin instead.

​Habitat

These small fish are found in tidal pools or shallow coastal reefs right around Tasmania. They are poor swimmers and tend to lay inconspicuously in red seaweeds rolling backwards and forwards with the swells. Active at night when they hunt for food.

Fishing information

An uncommon capture, more likely to be in a gillnet than on rod and line. Sometimes seen by divers.

Handling

These fish have venomous spines so handling should be minimal.

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