Hapuku
Polyprion oxygeneios
Also known as: Hapuka, Groper, Deepwater Groper, Wreckfish
Regulations & Limits
⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies
Hapuku 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
- Deep water species - found 100-800m depth
- Lives up to 60 years - very slow growing
- IUCN listed as Vulnerable
- Reaches maturity at 7+ years
- Premium eating fish - highly prized
ℹ️ Regulations can change. Always verify current rules at rules.fish.wa.gov.au
Size & Weight
| Typical Size | 80-100 cm |
| Max Size | 180 cm |
| Typical Weight | 15-25 kg |
| Max Weight | 100 kg |
Habitat
Where: Continental slope, deep rocky reefs, underwater structure
Depth: 100-800m (typically 200-400m)
ID Features: Large, heavy, stocky body. Brownish-grey to blue-grey colouring. Silvery-white underbelly. Protruding lower jaw. Large eye adapted for low light. 10-12 strong dorsal spines.
Season
Peak: Year-Round | Water Temp: 9 – 16°C (deep water)
How to Catch Hapuku
Deep Drop Fishing
Setup
- Line: PE6-10 / 60-100lb braid
- Leader: 100-150lb mono or fluorocarbon
Best Baits
- Squid (whole or large strips)
- Fish fillets (blue mackerel, trevally)
- Octopus
- Large pilchard heads
Targeting Tips
Eating Quality
Flesh: White, succulent, moist with large thick flakes
Best cooked: Pan-fried, baked, grilled. Premium restaurant fish.
The Fight
Extremely powerful fighter. The combination of their size and deep water habitat makes for epic battles. Electric reels recommended but some purists use manual winches.