Best months
June–November
Where
- Open sea
- Rocks
- Estuaries
- Sandy beaches
Best time
- Dawn
- Dusk
Conditions
- Rising tide
Usual size
60–120 cm
General guidance for the Mediterranean and the nearby Atlantic; local seasons can differ.
How to catch it
Methods
- Live bait
- Spinning (lures)
Baits
- Live fish
Lures
- Surface lures
- Minnows / plugs
- Soft plastics
The angler's tip
Follows mullet shoals along beaches and river mouths: a live mullet or a big surface lure at dawn. Long, powerful runs — use strong line.
Easily confused with
Legal minimum size
We have no verified rule for your country yet. Check your local fisheries authority before keeping any fish.
About this fish
The leerfish or garrick is a species of marine fish in the family Trachinotidae. It is the only extant member of the genus Lichia. It is native to much of the eastern Atlantic Ocean, from the Mediterranean and western Black Sea, north to France, and south along the coastal waters of western Africa, reaching as far south as eastern South Africa. They are an important species in coastal recreational fisheries, especially in Africa.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to catch Leerfish?
The best months are June–November. Best time of the day: Dawn, Dusk.
What bait or lure works for Leerfish?
Live fish · Surface lures, Minnows / plugs, Soft plastics · Live bait, Spinning (lures).
Related species
These are estimates, not guarantees. Always look at the sea yourself before going out, do not go alone and wear a life jacket.