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Barramundi

Lates calcarifer

A powerful tropical fish found in coastal, brackish, and freshwater systems across the Indo-Pacific.

Brackish
Barramundi held near tropical water
John Robert McPherson, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

  • Large silver body with a sloped forehead.
  • Big mouth and pronounced lower jaw.
  • Rounded tail and strong shoulder profile.

Habitat

Estuaries, mangroves, tidal rivers, coastal lagoons, and stocked freshwater impoundments.

Bait notes

Hardbody lures, soft plastics, live prawns, mullet, and sardines are common.

Behavior

Predatory fish that feeds around current seams, structure, bait schools, and tide changes.

Caution

Size and season rules vary widely by country and fishery.

Fishing notes

Tide movement, water temperature, and structure often matter more than distance covered.