Credit: CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research
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Coral Trout

Sport Factor: Medium sport valueMedium sport value   Table Quality: High eating valueHigh eating valueHigh eating value
Scientific NamePlectropomus maculatus
iMapPlot Reference Image
Common Namescoastal trout, island coral trout, leopard coral trout
HabitatSalt Water
Size & Weight2 - 5kgs. Can reach 15kgs (Caution - coral trouts over 8kgs may carry ciguatera toxins)
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 The Coral Trout
One of the most highly sought after reef fish in the northern tropics of Australia. Exhibits strikingly beautiful body colour ranging from greenish brown and pinkish grey in the shallower reefs to brick red and bright rich red in the deeper waters. Large coral trouts (8kgs and over) in certain areas may have ciguatera toxins, therefore it is highly advisable to obtain local advice.

 Catching a Coral Trout
Coral trout is a tropical reef dwelling fish, so it’s ideal to suspend baits just off the bottom and pay attention to accurate anchoring techniques. Another method is to use large surface poppers (lightweight lures) and cast over coral shallows, skipping them back over the drop-off into deeper waters

Sport Value

Hard hitting fish that heads to the cover of reef holes and crevices

Tackle

10 - 30kgs on the main line. Medium to Heavy boat rod. Ideal with a snapper reef rig setup with a sinker and two droppers. Use No. 2 - 10 hooks. Minnow, Minnow Deep Diving and Slice lures can also be used.

Bait

Freshly cut fish flesh, prawns or squid, pilchard, live minnow, hardiheads

 Eating a Coral Trout
Highly sought after fish that features, mild and delicate sweet white flesh, firm fine flakes, low oiliness and provides thick fillets with few bones that are easily removed
Image Gallery

 Recommended Reading for Coral Trout
Fish Australia Fish Australia
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Northern Territory Fish Finder Fishing Map Northern Territory Fish Finder Fishing Map
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What Fish Is That? What Fish Is That?
With 150 species identified and illustrated this guide will certainly be useful for all fisherman! Once this is in your tacklebox you'll be able to make an accurate idenfication on the spot! Each page shows a picture of the fish, where it is usually located, a description, and the best method to make the catch!