Blackspot Tuskfish
Choerodon schoenleinii
Also known as: Bluebone, Tusky, Black Spot Tuskfish
Regulations & Limits
⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies
Blackspot Tuskfish count towards your total demersal scalefish bag limit. You can keep a maximum of 2 demersal scalefish total statewide.
Limits by Bioregion
Good to Know
- Part of tuskfish group - 2 individual species limit within demersal total
- Highly prone to barotrauma when caught from depths greater than 10m
- Protogynous hermaphrodite - females change to males
- Heavy tackle recommended - will cut line on reef structure
ℹ️ Regulations can change. Always verify current rules at rules.fish.wa.gov.au
Size & Weight
| Typical Size | 50 cm |
| Max Size | 100 cm |
| Typical Weight | 5 kg |
| Max Weight | 15.5 kg |
Habitat
Where: Flat sandy or weedy areas near lagoon and seaward reefs
Depth: 0.5-60m (usually less than 20m)
ID Features: Blue-green body, distinctive black spot behind pectoral fin, prominent canine teeth
Season
Peak: Year-Round | Water Temp: 20 – 28°C
How to Catch Blackspot Tuskfish
Bottom Fishing
Setup
- Line: PE4-6 / 30-50lb braid
- Leader: 60-80lb fluorocarbon
Top Lures
- Soft plastics 4-6 inch
- Jigs with squid strip
Best Baits
- Prawns (top choice)
- Crab
- Octopus
- Squid
- Shellfish
Technique Tips
Eating Quality
Flesh: White, firm, sweet
Best cooked: Pan fried, battered, steamed, raw (sashimi)
The Fight
Extremely hard fighting - heads straight for structure. Will cut line on reef within seconds if not stopped. Need to turn them immediately on the bite.