Best Months
Jan – Dec
Best Time
Milkfish typically surface feed from mid-morning to early afternoon when the sun is high and algae is most active
Tide
Milkfish follow the incoming tide onto reef flats where they graze on surface algae and floating matter
Top Locations
2 regions
How to Catch Milkfish
Milkfish follow the incoming tide onto reef flats where they graze on surface algae and floating matter. The top of the tide is most productive.
Milkfish typically surface feed from mid-morning to early afternoon when the sun is high and algae is most active.
Calm, clear, sunny conditions on reef flats. Christmas Island milkfish are found on the windward side of the island in settled conditions.
Reef flats and lagoon edges where surface algae accumulates. Milkfish are pelagic feeders that come shallow to graze — watch for 'tailing' or surface swirls.
Highly specialised fly technique using surface algae imitations (Christmas Tree fly, Christmas Island Special). Present fly in the fish's path and let it drift naturally.
Milkfish are arguably the hardest fly-fishing challenge in the world — they're virtually impossible to hook due to their soft, surface-grazing feeding. A successful Christmas Island milkfish on fly is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.
Best Regions by Month
Seasonal ratings across all Australian regions. Click a region to see the full calendar.
Traditional fly fishing with dry flies and nymphs for trout and bass in streams and lakes. The pinnacle of freshwater technique.