The Mulloway is the common name for Argyrosomus japonicus (previously called Argyrosomus hololepidotus), which are found in coastal waters from Rockhampton in Queensland to North West Cape, Western Australia (excluding Tasmania). In the tropical north it is replaced by the Black Jewfish Protonibea diacanthus.

Although these species may look similar, the tail is the key to identification. The rear edge of a mulloway tail is almost straight while the black jewfish tail flares out at the centre, giving the tail a diamond shape. Mulloway can reach maximum weight of approximately 60 kg and a length of 1.8 m. they are mostly silver with a blue/grey, green, or bronze coloured back.

They possess a line of pearly white spots along the lateral line, are yellowish or orange inside mouth and sometimes have a conspicuous black patch above pectoral fin base. The name jewfish refers to its large otoliths, which are prized as “jewels” by some fishers.

Largely an inshore species, they usually inhabit tidal rivers, estuaries and surf beaches, reefs and rocky headlands. However, they can be found offshore at depths in excess of 100m. The areas adjacent to road bridges and wharfs are ideal fishing locations, especially at night under bright lighting.

Although not a common occurrence, Mulloway are caught by flyfishers and not only at night, although your chances are better during darkness. Nor are Mulloway only caught by fishing sinking lines in deep water as they do feed off or close to the surface.

Whilst 8wt rods will handle the smaller “soapies” a 10 wt with a matching reel and good drag system would be preferred if you are chasing serious fish. If the fish are feeding on mullet near the surface Use a floating line so your fly looks like a mullet near the surface.

Some flyfishers use S6 fast sink lines especially during the day when the fish are deep but at night the fish become a little less shy. A fluorocarbon tippet of 10 – 15kg is recommended as the mulloways raspy teeth can damage tippets. Mulloway can be caught on a variety of flies including clousers and shrimp imitations but large mullet style flies such as Sparklebaits and bombers work well in dark colours as they look like the silhouette of a mullet and let off a little shine as the lights of the bridge hit them.