Australian Salmon / Kahawai

The fish commonly known as the Australian Salmon, or Kahawai in New Zealand, holds significant value for anglers in the Southern Hemisphere. Scientifically referred to as Arripis trutta, this fish is not related to the Atlantic salmon but shares a name due to its similar appearance. Its importance to fishermen stems from both sport and table quality. Australian Salmon are famed for their powerful fight and acrobatic displays, making them a favorite target among sport fishers. They are also sought after for their mildly flavored flesh, which can be prepared in a variety of dishes.

Appearance & Size

Australian Salmon possess a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body, which is well-suited to their active lifestyle in the water. Their coloration generally ranges from blue-green on the upper body, fading into a silvery-white belly. This serves as an effective camouflage in their oceanic habitats. Distinctive black spots found along their sides often help in identifying them. While the typical size for these fish ranges from 40 to 70 cm, they can reach a maximum length of about 89 cm and weigh over 9 kg, offering a substantial challenge to anglers.

Habitat & Behavior

Australian Salmon are commonly found along the coastal waters of Australia and New Zealand. They are known to inhabit surf zones, rocky reefs, and estuarine environments, thriving at depths of up to 200 meters. These fish display schooling behavior, often forming large, dynamic groups. They are opportunistic feeders, dining on smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Seasonal migrations occur, often influenced by water temperature and food availability, making their movements somewhat predictable to experienced fishers.

Fishing Techniques

Successfully catching Australian Salmon requires a blend of skill and the right equipment. Anglers often find success using light to medium spinning setups, which provide the necessary sensitivity and power. Effective baits include pilchards, squid, and small baitfish, while lures such as metal slugs, soft plastics, and surface poppers can also entice these aggressive feeders. Beach fishing at dawn or dusk proves particularly rewarding, as these times align with their peak feeding periods. Overhead and spinning reels with a fast retrieve ratio are highly recommended to manage their energetic runs effectively.

Prime Locations & Seasons

Australian Salmon are distributed widely across temperate coastal regions. In Australia, the southern coasts, particularly around Victoria and South Australia, are renowned hotspots. In New Zealand, they are commonly targeted around the North Island, with the Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay being notable areas. Their peak season varies by location but generally spans from late summer to early winter. Warmer currents and baitfish movements often trigger a surge in their activity, providing optimal conditions for anglers looking to land these exhilarating fish.