Fishing for flatties

It is safe to say that arguably, flathead are easily one of the top ten tastiest saltwater fish on offer. They are readily found in estuaries, bays and inlets which are favourable waterways when fishing with kids whether on a boat or off the beach.

Flatty facts

Flathead are commonly bottom dwellers, meaning they live on the sea floor in the sand and they tend to stick together. When you do find them, you should be in for a fun session.

Be wary of flathead spikes, they hurt! There are 3 spikes in total, 2 either side and one on top of their head. Take extra care when handling these fish and use lip grips to avoid the spikes. Should you happen to fall victim, urban legend is to rub the slime from the fish’s belly onto the wound to alleviate the sting and duration of the pain.

Flathead are aggressive feeders and once you provide temptation in front of them, they will take the bait and usually this is within seconds of the lure/bait hitting the sand.

Archer reeling in a small flathead

Generally, flathead wait for their food to come to them, they sit in the sand awaiting tide change and prey on prawns and other small bait fish that are washed along above them. Fishing as the tide is falling (going down) is your prime catch time.

Catching

A great benefit of flathead fishing with kids is that these fish respond well to soft plastics and therefore, bait is not required. So, with no mess, no smelly bait and less prep time you have more quality fishing time with the kids.

Considering the natural bait that flatties feed off, the best soft plastics are going to be the ones that mimic their preferred feed. Try starting off with 4” turtleback worms (Gulp) or other similar plastics matched with a jig head to suit the conditions. If you are new or just starting off fishing with soft plastics, aim for a 1/16 – 1/8 oz jig head with a 1/0-2/0 hook.

Light gear is best suited such as a 2-4kg spinning outfit matched with braided line between 8-15 lb using a leader of 8-16 lb.

When fishing from the boat, move around until you find where the flatties are hiding. If land based, look for areas that appear to be on the edge of a drop off or near a rocky ledge. You may need to try several spots before you have any luck. Whether you choose to cast out or drop the plastic beside the boat, allow it to sink down to the very bottom. This may take a few seconds depending on the depth of the water. Once the line has gone slack, wind in a little so that the line is tight and give a few jigs of the rod. Once the flatty takes your grub, you need to quickly set the hook and wind in your catch.

Vera with a nice sized flatty

Flathead will thrash about especially once they are lifted out of the water and can drop easily so it is best to net them in the water to secure your catch.

To humanely dispatch your fish (if size), a simple spike with a sharp fillet knife through the top of their head will suffice.

Please check with your local fisheries body to be updated on rules and regulations for size and bag limits.