Kahawai

Kahawai - Up to eighty centimetres

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Saltwater

Warehou Trumpeter Trevally Tarakihi Snapper Red cod Parore Kahawai John dory Jack Mackerel

Like the yellowtail this is a predominantly northern species wandering south in summer months to Banks Peninsula and beyond. Normally this species moves in shoals of similar-sized individuals, harrying small fishes such as sardines and pilchards, although any small fishes, crabs, shrimps and squids are taken when available.

It enters fresh water, at least briefly, and there takes bullies, eels, smelts and inangas.

Kopapa is a name sometimes used for coarsely spotted examples up to thirty centimetres. Although still reasonably common, commercial purse-seining has put this species under enormous pressure and they are not as common as they once were. However, they are still one of the most common recreational catches.

These fine light-tackle sportfish will take a wide variety of lures and baits, and frequently jump when hooked. A strong flavoured flesh improves if the fish is bled on capture.

- © Fairfax NZ News