Garfish

Garfish is an elongated, surface-dwelling marine species recognizable by its slender silver body, distinctive beak-like jaws filled with sharp teeth, and signature green bones. Traveling in active shoals, it frequents coastal waters, rocky shores, and bays where it preys on small baitfish. Known for its energetic leaps and fast swimming bursts when hooked, Garfish offers thrilling action on light tackle. It relies heavily on sight to locate food, making it especially active in clear water and sunny conditions.

Feeds

Surface

Best times

Dawn · Day · Dusk

How to catch it

Target Garfish using light spinning gear with a fast, erratic surface retrieve, or by suspending natural baits under a clear float or bubble float. Retrieve slim metal spoons quickly to skip along the top layer, or use specialized silk thread rigs that entangle in the teeth of Garfish without the need for traditional hooks.

Lures that work

• Slim metal casting spoons
• Small silver jigs
• Mackerel bait strips
• Ragworms
• Silk thread lures

Season

Most prevalent in coastal regions from late spring through early autumn when warmer waters draw schools inshore.

Size and bag limits depend on where you fish, so FishNerd shows them on each catch, for your exact location.