The salvation of many a fresh water trip when the barramundi are quiet, Saratoga are a renowned sportfish in their own right, often targeted by specialist fly and lure fishers who are just their for the thrills. A dynamic taker of surface baits, the “Toga” has eyes more towards the top of its head, advertising its preferred method of feeding … stalking and taking surface prey such as frogs mice insects and other top water delicacies in a noisy and spectacular shower of water and confusion.
Most often encountered around weed and lilies, the Saratoga also likes shade and can often be found “cooling off” under pandanus trees and overhanging snags. The usual size is 2-3kg but I have seen a 5kg species taken on a brown Dahl berg or white “Woo lie Bugger” early morning at Manton Dam
Like barramundi and queen fish, Saratoga have endeared themselves to sport fishers by their aerial acrobatics. During the fight they would spend more time in the air than the water. Favoured by such notables as Lefty Kreh and Peter Morse, a useful method is to drift the banks at first light, throwing large Dahl bergs or similar onto lily pads, then slowly drawing them into the clear water. A fish in the proximity will nearly always strike, though not always be hooked, due to an enormous bony jaw and mouth.
To see a large Saratoga steaming with malicious intent toward the ripples caused by your popper or fly can be a daunting experience. It can take a particular kind of personal courage to leave the lure at the spot, anticipating the thump and splash of the take without flinching!
Full of bones and not much for eating, one of my fondest memories is the wilderness of Corroboree Billabong bathed in the first glow of morning light, with a Toga flying through the air attached to the end of my line, framed by the majestic beauty of the green lilies and their abundant lilac coloured flowers.
A fisherman’s fish, indeed! |
