Yellowtail Scad - Trachurus novaezelandiae

Large schools of Yellowtail Scad (Trachurus novaezelandiae) are a common sight around Terrigal, especially just past the anchor in the Haven. These common fish are also known as Yakkas (by fishermen), Yellowtails or Horse mackerel. The photo below shows their usual schooling behaviour, with some near-shore schools containing hundreds (even thousands in the bigger schools) of individuals.

Schooling Yellowtail Scad above a kelp covered rock in Terrigal Haven. Photo by Dave Jones

Yellowtail Scad seem to be drawn to pylons and other structures and are generally seen schooling around natural outcrops, such as raised macroalgae covered boulders. They feed on zooplankton and make erratic darting movements out from the edge of the school mass then quickly retreat back into the centre when they are feeding.

This fish is easy to identify due to the schooling behaviour and distinct silver body with bright yellow forked tail. They commonly grow to around 30cm although individuals reaching up to 50cm have been recorded.

The Yellowtail Scad is commonly caught and used as live bait by rock fisherman in their attempts to catch large tuna and kingfish.

Close up of a Yellowtail Scad school. Photo by Keith Bishop

 

Hundreds of Yellowtail Scad schooling above macroalgae at Terrigal. Photo by Keith Bishop

They are regarded as a poor eating fish by seafood eaters. However, divers love seeing schools of Yellowtail Scad. If you are patient and calm enough the school will acclimatise to your presence and eventually encircle you. It's an awesome feeling! Keep an eye out when you see Yellowtail Scad as you may see large kingfish rounding up the school. Yellowtail Scad are one of the kingfishes main source of food.