South African Fish Species: The Blacktail (Dassie, White Bream)

Interesting Information On The South African Blacktail

South Africa's Blacktail is a very commonly caught fish by many South African anglers and fisherman. Blacktail is the most well know name by which this fish goes by, however South African's also refer to it as the Dassie and world wide it is also known as the White Bream. It's scientific name is Diplodus sargus.

The Blacktail was first recorded in South African's ocean waters in 1844. It is often caught by fishermen fishing from the rocks. The adults of this species can reach up to 45 centimeters in length and a weight of over 3 kilograms. The Blacktail is very difficult to misidentify as the black spot just before the tail starts is a sure give away that the fish you have caught is in fact the Dassie!

The Blacktail is primarily an inshore fish species and favours turbulent and rough seas. They love rocky areas and are often caught around rocks. Blacktail often occur in small shoals and they can tolerate all sorts of variable temperatures. Contrary to popular belief Blacktail are found in estuaries as I have caught many of them in different estuarine locations. Blacktail are omnivorous feeding fish and all sorts of food items are consumed. Juvenile White Bream often inhabit rock pools and tidal pools. Sharks and other game fish feed on Blacktail when the opportunity presents itself.

How To Catch The South African Blacktail (Dassie)

The Blacktail may be caught in many different ways with many different fishing techniques. Bait fishing/Rock and surf angling are the best ways to capture this lively fish. Prawn, Red Bait, Sardine (Pilchard) and worms are your best bait option to catch the Dassie. Squid (Chokka) also works but it is not effective. Blacktail are found around rock areas and in very rough water. White water around rocks is the best place to cast your bait.

Dropshot also works quite well for Blacktail and any of the artificial worms produces a lot of fish. The Camo Worm is highly recommended... You can't go wrong using a Camo Worm for Blacktail!

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