Targeting garfish is both an exciting and challenging experience for anglers who enjoy coastal and estuarine fishing. These slender, fast-moving fish are known for their speed, agility, and ability to put up a good fight when hooked. Garfish are often found in shallow waters, around jetties, estuaries, and coastal inlets, especially during warmer months. To catch them consistently, choosing the best bait for garfish is essential. While they may not be the largest species in the sea, their numbers, fighting ability, and taste make them a rewarding catch when using the right techniques and the right bait.
Understanding Garfish Feeding Behavior
Before selecting bait, it helps to understand how and what garfish eat. Garfish are surface and mid-water feeders. They are attracted to movement, light reflections, and small, soft food items. These fish often feed in schools and are most active during early morning and late afternoon hours. Because of their keen eyesight and quick movements, the bait used must be both attractive and presented properly.
Typical Diet of Garfish
- Tiny crustaceans such as shrimp and prawns
- Small baitfish like whitebait and anchovies
- Worms, especially bloodworms or sandworms
- Small marine insects and larvae
- Floating bits of seaweed with edible microorganisms
Matching your bait to their natural diet increases your chances of success. Garfish are not usually interested in large or motionless baits, so selecting something that mimics their normal food in appearance and movement is key.
Top Natural Baits for Garfish
Natural bait remains one of the most effective methods when targeting garfish. These options replicate their natural food sources and are readily accepted in most conditions.
Prawns and Shrimp
One of the best baits for garfish is fresh or frozen prawns. Cut into small pieces and rigged on a fine hook, prawns release scent into the water and provide the soft texture that garfish prefer. Ensure the prawn pieces are small enough for garfish to swallow easily, as their mouths are narrow and delicate.
Worms
Bloodworms, sandworms, and even earthworms work exceptionally well. These wriggly baits are hard for garfish to resist. You can thread a small section onto a size 12 or 14 hook, allowing the worm to move naturally in the current.
Whitebait and Anchovies
Small baitfish like whitebait can be used whole or cut into fine strips. They are particularly effective when the water is clear, and fish are feeding more aggressively. Whitebait is especially useful in deeper water when garfish are not near the surface.
Chicken or Fish Flesh
Though not always considered a traditional choice, finely cut pieces of chicken breast or fish fillet can work well in a pinch. The key is to cut them thin enough to imitate worm-like movement in the water.
Artificial Baits and Alternatives
While natural baits are often preferred, artificial options can also work if used correctly. These baits offer convenience, durability, and a cleaner fishing experience.
Bread Dough
Simple bread dough rolled into tiny balls is an old-school favorite. Garfish are curious feeders and will often nip at floating dough, especially when used in combination with a breadcrumb berley (chum) trail. This method is particularly popular for casual anglers fishing from piers.
Soft Plastics
Micro soft plastics that imitate shrimp or worms can work, but they must be rigged on ultralight tackle and tiny jig heads. Action is important gentle flicks or slow retrieves are better than fast movements, which may scare garfish off.
Artificial Worms
Some bait suppliers offer scented, artificial worms designed for saltwater use. These are reusable and ideal for anglers who want to avoid dealing with live bait. Although not always as effective as the real thing, they are a practical choice in certain situations.
How to Rig Bait for Garfish
Garfish have small, delicate mouths, so rigging bait properly is just as important as the bait choice itself. Using the wrong hook or improper rig can lead to missed bites or spooked fish.
Recommended Hook Sizes
- Size 12 to 14 long-shank hooks work best
- Use fine wire hooks to avoid damaging the bait
- Barbless hooks are optional and easier for quick catch-and-release
Floats and Rigs
- Use a pencil float or small bubble float for surface fishing
- Attach a light leader of 4 to 6 lb test line
- Keep the bait suspended just below the surface or mid-water
- Split shot sinkers can help balance the rig and maintain depth
Garfish respond well to slow-drifting bait, especially when presented with a berley trail. The movement of the float and small bites require keen attention, so keep your eye on subtle changes in the water.
Berley: Boosting Your Success
No discussion of bait for garfish is complete without mentioning berley. Berleying is a technique where small ptopics of food are released into the water to attract fish. It increases your chances of encountering feeding garfish and keeping them around long enough to take your bait.
Effective Berley Options
- Breadcrumbs soaked in fish oil
- Mashed pilchards mixed with tuna oil
- Chopped prawn shells or fish offcuts
- Commercial fish attractant pellets
Use a berley pot or simply drop small amounts into the current every few minutes. Consistency is key to drawing garfish in and maintaining their interest near your baited area.
Best Conditions and Locations for Using Garfish Bait
Even with the perfect bait, timing and location play a critical role in your success. Understanding garfish behavior will help you position yourself where the fish are feeding actively.
Ideal Conditions
- Early morning or late afternoon hours
- Clear, calm waters with minimal wind
- Incoming tide near coastal structures
- Areas with submerged weed beds or rocks
Popular Spots
- Estuaries and tidal rivers
- Jetty and pier structures
- Rock walls and coastal headlands
- Seagrass flats near shore
Garfish often feed in schools, so once you find one, more are likely nearby. A well-placed bait combined with a light berley trail can keep them in your area for long periods.
Selecting the best bait for garfish involves matching their natural diet and using the right presentation techniques. Prawns, worms, whitebait, and even bread dough are among the most reliable choices. Pairing your bait with fine tackle, light floats, and consistent berleying dramatically improves your chances of success. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, mastering the art of baiting for garfish can lead to fun and productive days on the water. With the right setup and bait selection, you’ll be well on your way to landing these lively and delicious fish.