Size 1 - 4kg.

Habitat Pearl perch inhabit offshore areas usually with reef, gravel or rubble bottoms in depths from 20 - 60m. They are found from central New South Wales to southern Queensland. It has a deep, laterally compressed body, large eye and a black-skinned bony extension to the top of the gill cover Beneath the thin black membrane, this bony plate is pearly, hence its common name.

Qualities The fish tend to run hard and deep when hooked heading for the cover of the reef. In deep water the fish can provide a tough fight and on light line almost impossible to raise.

Record Australian record 5.755kg.

Best Bait

Tackle

Hints Only fresh fish strip baits are likely to be taken, or small squid. Widely regarded as one of Australia's best table fish.