Baitfish FAQs
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June 26, 2025
Baitfish, also known as forage fish, are small, schooling fish that feed on phytoplankton (algae) and various small marine organisms. Common baitfish found in New Zealand include pilchards, mackerels, kōheru and anchovies.
June 26, 2025
While small, baitfish play a significant role in the marine environment and are the critical link in the food web. Baitfish are a vital food source for the entire coastal ecosystem including kahawai, kingfish, snapper, marine mammals, seabirds and other larger predatory fish.
June 26, 2025
Jack mackerel (JMA) makes up the highest proportion of all baitfish caught in New Zealand. In the 2023-24 fishing year more than 44,000 tonnes (40 million kilos) of jack mackerel were caught in New Zealand. Source – Fisheries New Zealand, Fisheries Assessment Plenary. May 2024. Page 653
