Fingermouth

(Lutjanus Johnii)

Common Names

Fingermouth or Fingerbream. In the Northern Territory it is called the Golden Snapper or Snapper, whilst in parts of Queensland it is called the Red Chopper.

Description

This attractive fish is deep bodied and has a characteristic golden lustre with spotted scales and a dark patch on the back forward of the tail. It has a large, dark eye. Base colors vary from coppery-gold to purple-gold. The scales have a dark centre, and give a chequered effect. The fins, especially the tail, are mainly dark.

Size

Rarely do these fish exceed 10.0 kilos, and a fish weighing 6.0-7.0 kilos is considered exceptional. Most fish taken range from 0.6-4.0 kilos.

Habitat

Confined to tropical waters, rarely venturing south. They like tropical mangroves, but also inhabit bays and inshore reefs. They are a schooling fish and move with the tides.

Feeding

Dependent on the cylce of the tides. They are opportunistic predators and eat small mullet, gar, archerfish, prawns, shrimp, crab, octopus and worms. They do, however, really enjoy squid!

Fishing Techniques

A well-presented piece of bait of live fish is essential. They will take lures as well as deep-diving minnows.

Fishing Tackle

Tackle ranges from handlines to light outfits with 3.0-8.0 kilo lines. A heavy trace, and 2/0-6/0 hooks are also used.

Eating

This is a superb table fish. The white flesh is sweet and tender, even in the larger fish.

Bag Limit

Queensland 10