Jewfish – also known as Mulloway or “The Silver Ghost” – are a prized local catch, known for tasting better the bigger they get. Smaller ones are often called “soapies” due to their less appealing flavour, but with a 75cm minimum size in Queensland, that’s rarely an issue.
I’ve never targeted them specifically, but they’ve shown up while chasing other species and are always a welcome surprise. I’d rate them 4 out of 5 stars on the plate. They’ll happily take big live baits and lures, and some anglers dedicate countless hours pursuing them from beaches, jetties, reefs, and around river mouths – especially after rain.
Fishing Legends and Local Spots
Jewfish can grow over 2 metres and top 40 kilograms, making them a real test for your gear. Some old timers believe they can pull beachworms from the sand using just their mouths – something I struggle to do with both hands!
Recently, a few legal jewfish have been caught from Woody Point Jetty on live pike, and a while back, I filmed a school of them under Shorncliffe Jetty. You can check out the footage on my YouTube channel.
The name “Mulloway” comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “The Greatest One” – a fitting title for such an impressive fish.
Read more stories from the Chermside Guide’s print magazine here:
- Chermside Connect: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review: The Buckleys
- Movie Review: This Is Spinal Tap
- Virginia Golf Club: Brisbane’s Oldest Golf Course with a Champion Legacy
- Organic Gardening in August
- Ride Into Ekka Fun With Family Savings
- Zonta Club Workshop Supports Safe Births Worldwide
- An Unforgettable Afternoon of Music and Memories
- What the Brisbane Budget Means for Chermside
- Craigslea State High School Choir Hits Historic High
- Help Your Learner Driver Hit the Road with Confidence
- Big-Screen Elvis Experience Rocks the Northern Suburbs
- Local Changemaker Wins Philanthropy Innovation Award
- Mystery Writer Spills Secrets Behind New Release
- Silent Disco Turns Up Retro Dance Vibes
- Stafford Street Pantry Launches to Help Locals in Need
- Mal Celebrates 100 Extraordinary Years
- Weet-Bix, Date and Ginger Loaf