Barramundi

The mighty barramundi is without doubt one of Australia 's premier sportfish. It is known to have a lifespan of 25+ years in the natural environment and can reach 1.8 metres in length and 60+ kgs.

Wild, local saltwater fish have been captured and transported to GAWB hatchery where staff have provoked optimum spawning conditions in order to farm fingerlings.

The fingerlings are then released into the Awoonga catchment and left to fend for themselves. This stocking is at a rate of 250,000 fingerlings per annum.

Roughly 30 percent of those fingerlings will go on to survive, meaning incredible numbers of barra roam beneath Awoonga's waves.

An abundant food source combined with optimum weather conditions see the fingerlings grow at a staggering rate, tagging data suggests that once they reach 12 months of age the fish then go on to put on an average of 3.5kg per year.

Barramundi as young as 4 years old (average is five) can reach the magic metre mark once this milestone is reached the fish tend to take on a classic “impoundment” look, with broad shoulders, a scooped head and chunky flanks.

Much like their saltwater cousins, impoundment barra fight hard and fast, with lightening turns of speed and impressive aerial displays. They are a fantastic fighting species and incorporate fast running spurts of power, head shaking and often clear the water a number of times before coming to the net.

There are many misconceptions amongst the fishing fraternity regarding these fish but make no mistake impoundment barra are an incredible challenge, fight like mad and will test your skills.

Are you up to the challenge?