Eel

Eels (family: Anguillidae) are elongated, snake-like fish that can be found in both freshwater and brackish environments across Australia. They have smooth, slippery bodies that allow them to easily navigate through rocks, mud, and submerged vegetation. Eels are nocturnal predators, primarily feeding on smaller fish, worms, and invertebrates. There are several species of eel in Australia, but the most commonly targeted by anglers is the Longfin Eel (Anguilla reinhardtii), which can grow to lengths of up to 1.5 meters. Eels are known for their slippery, elusive nature, which makes them a challenge to catch. They are often found in freshwater rivers, lakes, and estuaries, as well as coastal regions where the freshwater meets the saltwater. Fishing for eels typically involves using baits such as worms, minnows, or shrimp, and employing bottom fishing techniques. They are also caught using eel traps or by fishing at night when they are most active. Eels tend to be caught by anglers fishing for other species, as they are often considered a bycatch. The best time to fish for eels is during the warmer months, especially at night when they are actively foraging. Locations such as the Murray River and parts of Tasmania are popular eel fishing areas.