Southern Conger Eel
Conger Verreauxi
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Quick Facts
Distribution
Interesting Info
- The Southern Conger Eel is mostly a solitary fish, found in shallow temperate coastal waters on the east, south east & south coasts of Australia.
- They are a nocturnal hunter, that hides amongst reefs and rocky areas in caves, holes and crevices during the day becoming active at night.
- Conger Eels are carnivores, feeding on smaller fish, squid & crustaceans at night. They have been known to visit cray pots for quick easy meals.
- Estimated lifespan is around 20 years. Although little is known about their life cycle.
- The main predators of Southern Conger Eel include sharks and larger predatory fish.
Species Interaction
Recreational Fishing
Southern Conger are generally a bycatch when targeting other species of fish. However some anglers do target them as they are considered a good fish to smoke.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Anguilliformes
Family: Congridae
Genus: Conger
Species: Conger verreauxi
Conservation Status
Based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Southern Conger are currently categorised as “Least Concern”(LC).
LC is the lowest category on the scale for risk with “Extinct”(EX) being the highest.
Fish Taste Quality
Southern Conger Eel are a good table fish. Often smoked but also cooked as steaks or fillets.
Taste Rating: 3/5
How to catch
Southern Conger Eel
Catch Difficulty: Intermediate
Tackle: Patternoster Rig, Running Sinker Rig
Bait: Anchovy, Fresh cut flesh baits, Herring, Pilchards, Prawns, Squid
Technique: Keep bait close to the reef/structure
Popularity: Popular
