Tench

Freshwater species found in South Australia. Established in the River Murray and Onkaparinga River – if discovered elsewhere, please report it immediately to Fishwatch 1800 065 522 or via the SA Fishing app.

Tench is a medium sized species that competes with native species for food. It must not to be returned to the water when caught.

Declared noxious under the Fisheries Management Act 2007. Noxious species are a severe threat to the natural environment and industries. They cannot be held or traded in South Australia without specific authorisation and must not be returned to the water if caught.

What to look for:

• up to 64 cm, but generally found smaller 10–30 cm
• skin is thick and slimy with small scales embedded
• usually olive-green but at times dark green or almost black, with golden reflections on the ventral surface.