SPECIES

Australian Bass

Macquaria novemaculeata

Mainly caught recreationally, it is often found in farm dams. It lives in fresh and brackish water and is found in estuaries, rivers, small streams and lakes of eastern Australia from Gippsland (VIC) to the start of Queensland’s Mary River system. Its colour varies from bronze to greyish green depending on its habitat. It is endemic to Australia.

DIVE DEEPER

COMMERCIAL NAME

Australian Bass

Method of Capture

Region

Other names

Australian Perch, Bass, Freshwater Perch.

Scientific Family

Percichthyidae (Temperate Basses).

Seasonality

Supply is limited.

Size

Average 1kg and 35cm, but can grow to 4.5kg and 65cm.

Price range

Medium priced.

Alternative Species

Blue-Eye Trevalla, Lings, Gemfish, Mulloway, Threadfin Salmon.

ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES

SHOPPING TIPS

In whole fish look for lustrous skin with a slippery, mucilaginous coating, firm flesh, and a pleasant, fresh smell. In fillets, look for pinkish, firm, lustrous, moist flesh without any brown markings or oozing water and with a pleasant fresh smell.

STORAGE TIPS

Make sure whole fish is scaled, gilled, gutted and cleaned thoroughly. Lay whole fish and fillets in a single layer on a plate and cover with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze whole fish for up to 6 months, and fillets for up to 3 months, below -18ºC.

COOKING TIPS

Yield is 45-50%. Has a mild flavour, low oiliness and moist, flesh with medium-texture, large flakes and few bones, which are easily removed. The thick skin is best removed.

COOKING METHODS

Steam, deep-fry, pan-fry, bake, grill, barbecue.

Flavour pairings

Asian greens, chilli, fresh herbs, lemon, lime, soy sauce, white wine. Good barbecued or baked wrapped in paperbark or banana leaves.

IMPORTS

None.
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