Are you ready for the tastiest, most rewarding fishing experience in Australia? If so, you’ve got to try gummy shark fishing! Gummy sharks (Mustelus antarcticus) are bottom-dwelling fish found throughout the waters of southern Australia from Bunbury, Western Australia to Jervis Bay, New South Wales.
Gummy sharks are a top-class eating fish and will provide you with a trly unique seafood experience. Although they can be found at depths of up to 350 metres, they mainly inhabit shallow waters. But don’t let that fool you – gummy sharks put up quite a fight when caught! They’re also quite shy, so it takes some skill to spot them.
When it comes time to prepare your catch, filleting and skinning a gummy shark can be quite tricky. However, with some practice and patience it can be done. Plus, the reward is worth the effort – freshly cooked flake in batter with lemon is an unbeatable seafood meal!
If you’re looking for an exciting fishing adventure with a delicious reward at the end, gummy shark fishing is definitely worth trying. The majority of fisheries focusing on this species are small scale operations in WA, VIC, TAS, NSW and Commonwealth waters. So get out there and give it a go – who knows what kind of bounty awaits!
Are Gummy Sharks Predatory?
No, gummy sharks (Mustelus antarcticus) are not considered to be generally aggressive. They are bottom-dwelling sharks that tend to avoid contact with humans and flee when spotted. This behavior has been observed in studies of this species, indicting that they are not typically aggressive. While it is possible for a gummy shark to become aggressive if provoked or threatened, such cases are rare.
Are Gummy Sharks Found in Australia?
Yes, gummy sharks (Mustelus antarcticus) are native to Australia. They inhabit the southern waters of Australia, with the greatest concentration occurring in Western Australia (WA). Gummy sharks are also found in Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales. In addition, they are present in Commonwealth waters. These sharks have a long history of being caught by small scale fisheries throughout Australia and continue to be a valuable species for both recreational and commercial fishing.
Are Gummy Sharks Real?
Yes, the gummy shark (Mustelus antarcticus) is a real species of shark that inhabits the waters of southern Australia. It belongs to the family Triakidae, whih are also commonly known as hound sharks. The gummy shark has a distinctive flattened head and can reach lengths of up to 1.2 meters. It is most commonly found at depths between 15 and 80 meters, although it has been recorded as deep as 350 meters. Its diet consists primarily of fish, squid and crustaceans.
Do Gummy Sharks Pose a Risk to Humans?
No, gummy sharks do not bite humans. Gummy sharks have very soft and blunt teeth that are not sharp enough to penetrate human skin. Instead, they use thir mouths to feed on small fish, mollusks, squids, and worms. They typically don’t pose a threat to humans and can be handled safely if necessary.
Comparing Gummy Shark and Flake
No, gummy shark and flake are not the same. While ‘flake’ is a standard Australian fish name that only applies to two species of gummy shark – one from Australia and one from New Zealand – the term is commonly used more loosely to refer to any type of shark meat. This means that whie flake can refer to gummy sharks, it can also apply to other species of sharks, some of which are threatened and vulnerable. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the exact species when ordering or eating flake.
Should Gummy Sharks Be Bled?
Yes, it is important to bleed gummy sharks before preparing them to eat. To do this, make a deep horizontal incision behind the head of the shark. This will allw the blood to flow freely and prevent an unpleasant ammonia taste in the flesh. It is important to note that this step should not be skipped – bleeding the shark is absolutely essential for a safe and enjoyable eating experience.
Can You Catch Gummy Sharks in Queensland?
No, it is not possible to catch gummy sharks in Queensland. While the Eastern Spotted Gummy Shark may be caught as an infrequent bycatch in the Queensland East Coast Trawl Fishery, this species likey receives some refuge within deeper areas of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and in areas of its range that are not fished. Therefore, it is not possible to target gummy sharks in Queensland waters.
The Taste of Gummy Shark
Gummy shark, also knwn as flake, has a mild taste and a firm texture that is often likened to the texture of chicken or cod. Its flavor is subtle and sweet, with hints of ocean saltiness. It can be served fried, crumbed, grilled or steamed. Gummy shark is popular in Australia and New Zealand, where it’s traditionally served with chips (fries).
Yes, gummy shark is a top-class eating fish. Its white flesh is firm yet moist, with a slightly sweet flavor that lends itself to a variety of preparations. It is best to cook this fish quickly at a high heat to maintain its tenderness and flavor. The fillets can be grilled, fried, or baked in the oven with butter and herbs, whie larger steaks can be boiled or poached. Gummy shark also makes an excellent component for fish tacos and ceviches. When cooked correctly, it offers an enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced seafood lovers alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gummy Sharks pose no known threat to beachgoers or fisherman and are considered top-class eating fish. Found across the waters of southern Australia, extending from Bunbury in Western Australia to Jervis Bay in NSW, these bottom-dwelling sharks tend to flee when spotted and uually inhabit depths between 80 and 350 metres. Although they can be difficult to fillet and skin, Gummy Sharks are a delicious seafood option that is enjoyed by many around Australia.
