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| Blue Warehou Common names: Trevally, Snotties, Snotty Trevally.
Miminum size: 25cm.
Possession limit: 20. Possession limits apply everywhere, including in the home.
More closely related to the trevallas than the true trevally species. Dark steely blue above, silvery white below. When alive, darker blotches are often observed on flanks but these tend to fade soon after death. A prominent black spot is found above the pectoral fin. These fish have a mucous film covering their bodies (hence the name “snotties”). It has been speculated that this slime may be an adaptation to protect against the stinging cells of jellyfish which juveniles shelter under, and adults later feed upon.
Grows to 76cm and over 7kg in weight, (when reaching this size, they are about 10 years old). They are a rapidly growing fish, reaching around 25cm length in their first year. Spawning occurs in western Bass Strait in winter and spring, and there is some evidence that they become mature from about 32cm in length.
A migratory schooling fish which is caught on reefs, under jetties, wharves and moored boats. Though predominantly caught in gillnets, these fish are strong fighters when taken on light gear. The best method of capture is using a small hook with no sinker and allowing baits such as raw chicken meat or fresh shelled prawns to sink until reaching mid-water.
Juveniles and sub-adults form large schools and migrate through certain areas around Tasmania during summer and autumn, especially along the north and south-east coasts.
A very good eating fish when eaten fresh, although there is some deterioration of flesh when stored frozen for extended periods.
Its diet consists of jellyfish and small invertebrates.
Fish illustration by Peter Gouldthorpe
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