The body form is long and slender, rather like an eel but compressed at the sides. In Greece this particular feature is considered elegant and the local word for garfish (pronounced zargana ) was used as a compliment for slim, beautiful women.
The flanks and underbelly of the fish are silver with an iridescent green/turquoise dorsal coating of fine scales. These are dislodged when the fish is handled leaving speckles of luminous green on the hands of those fortunate enough to catch one.
However the most striking part of Garfish anatomy is its head which looks prehistoric. Rather than a mouth it has a long slim bone like pointed beak lined with a myriad of small razor sharp teeth, coupled with an outsized large eye. This gives the onlooker a clue to the feeding mechanism of the garfish- it is a perfectly adapted sight predator with a phenomenal burst speed which enables it to catch smaller unfortunate fish. The garfish didn’t evolve simply because it didn’t need to!
Where to Find Garfish
Garfish are ubiquitous in coastal waters all over the world although they tend to be summer visitors to temperate waters. They are frequent residents around piers and rocky headlands and anywhere else small baitfish can be found in abundance. They are usually easy to spot because they swim near the top or on top of the water.
Catching Garfish
Catching garfish is relatively easy although it does require a specialist approach. They are pelagic (near surface) feeders and therefore techniques have to be adopted accordingly- throwing a heavy lead with a large baited hook will not bring the angler any joy with garfish.
Light tackle is the order of the day- a light spinning outfit with 4kg breaking strain line or a 4/5 weight fly rod is ideal. Hook sizes must be small to fit that odd “mouth”, a size 12 or 14 being the most suitable. For the spinning outfit either free-lining or float fishing a 2-5 cm long fresh fish strip (mackerel is excellent) or small fish (such as whitebait) will bring results. The float is typically set at a depth of 1-2 metres. For the fly outfit use a slow sinking or intermediate line and a small (size 12) white/silver baitfish pattern. A useful tip for fly tiers is to incorporate wool into the pattern. The garfish's teeth become entangled in the wool if he is deceived by the fly, effectively doubling the hooking power.
When hooked on appropriate light gear garfish can give a spectacular account of themselves often leaping clear of the water several times providing the angler with excellent sport.
Garfish as Bait
Smaller garfish (up to 30 cm) are also a favourite food of other predators including bass. For best results use the garfish live and fish where possible under structures such as piers with appropriate strong tackle.
Eating Garfish
Contrary to popular belief garfish are excellent to eat despite the luminous turquoise bones. Clean the fish and wash in running cold water to remove scales. Lightly flour and fry in oil for 4-5 minutes turning occasionally. A little care is required because of the small bones however they are quite delicious.
Don’t be scared by the unusual appearance. Go catch and eat a pre-historic fish!!
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