Black Mussel Cracker to Split Paint Parrotfish
Black Mussel Cracker
They are found all along our coast from Cape to Natal, being most common
in Natal in the winter months. The Transkei coast is a favourite haunt of
these fish. They prefer deep reefs where there are lots of caves to hide
in. They are the wariest of fish and are impossible to approach unless one
is followed until he enters a cave, where they become quite easy to approach.
The strong scales on these fish make it advisable to shoot at an angle from
behind to penetrate this tough armour.
White Mussel Cracker
This is a migratory fish found in the summer months on the cape coast and
then migrating up the coast to Natal in the winter. They are plentiful in
Natal from August to November where they are found in the white water. As
for bronze bream, look for some fish activity around a rocky point and find
a spot to wedge yourself in on the bottom just outside the white water.
The fish will dart out of the foamy water to see what you are. You have
to be quick with your shot and hope it is well placed as they put up a strong
fight. Cave Rock and south pier on the Bluff are good spots for these fish.
Barred Needlefish
Needlefish(barred)
These fish are not speared by divers.
Old Woman
Old woman
They are not shot by divers but are a good way of finding a hot spot. The
old woman congregate in shoals up current from the hot spot. If the viz
is good enough to see them from the top they will
help you to find the fish.
Bluebarred Parrotfish
This is an easy fish to shoot, and is found in the warmer coastal waters
extending up into Mozambique where they are plentiful. They will be at the
fish hot spot and fight hard when speared so need a well placed shot below
the spine. They make excellent eating. The red parrot is the female of the
species. The athlone ledge has some big spicimens.
Fivesaddle Parrotfish
Text still to come
Splitpaint Parrotfish
Text still to come
