The Australian Bass is a catadromous species and they spend most of their lives in freshwater but migrate to salt water in winter months to breed. Climate change has dramatically effected natural fish stocks in many freshwater lakes and dams in of NSW. 

Characteristics

Australian Bass vary in colour from silver, green and bronze. The fish migrate downstream to the estuaries to breed between June and August and a fishing closure has been introduced at this time, to protect this species. Females are much larger than males. Adult fish are general purpose carnivores. The Bass has a back profile that is arched from above the eyes to the tail with only very slight tapering of the snout. They are sought after sport fish with bait, fly and artificial lure. Although considered excellent eating, the majority of fish are returned to the water unharmed.

Size

Maximum of 4 kg in weight and 65 cm in length.

Distribution

Australian Bass are found in fresh and saltwater, in eastern draining rivers from the Mary River in Queensland to the Gippsland Lakes in Victoria.