Species guide
How to catch Indian ilisha
Ilisha melastoma

brackishsaltwaterPristigasteridae
The Indian ilisha is a small, streamlined fish found in coastal and estuarine waters. It thrives in both saltwater and brackish environments and feeds mainly on plankton. This species inhabits coral reefs and tolerates varying salinity levels.
Where they live
Found in coastal waters and estuaries of the Indian Ocean and Pacific regions, including coral reefs; adapts well to both saltwater and brackish environments.
Typical size
Up to about 22 cm
What they eat
- small crustaceans
- zooplankton
Best baits
- small shrimp
- plankton-like bait
Best lures
- light jigging lures
- small soft plastics
How to fish for them
- light tackle fishing
- cast netting
- using plankton-mimicking lures
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