Bay Whiting

Sillago Ingenuua
Bay Whiting - Marinewise © 2026 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific nameSillago Ingenuua
Other namesBay Sillago
SizeUp to 30 cm (12 in)
WeightUnder .50 kg (1.1 lb)
FamilyWhiting / Sillaginidae

Distribution

Habitat & AU DistributionInshore coastal waters, bays & estuaries amongst sandy areas
Depth Range1 - 15 m (49 ft)
Bay Whiting Distribution
Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing, Snorkeling & Diving

Bay Whiting are a popular target for recreational fishing. They are known to put up a good fight on light tackle, and their delicious, delicate flesh makes them a desirable catch. They are an intriguing species for snorkelers and divers. They often swim in schools, allowing for easy observation. Their silver coloration and diamond-shaped scales produce a shimmering effect when sunlight hits them.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Sillaginidae

Genus: Sillago

Species: Sillago Ingenuua

Conservation Status

The Bay Whiting is classified as a species of ‘Least Concern’ in terms of conservation status in Australia. They are generally abundant and widespread throughout their range.

How to catch
Bay Whiting

Catch Difficulty: Easy

Tackle: Running sinker rig, Artificial lure

Bait: Crab, Fresh cut fish bait, Hard-body lures, Pilchards, Prawns, Shellfish, Squid, Worms, Yabbies, Soft plastics

Technique: Fish bait on the bottom, Cast near schooling fish

Popularity: Highly popular target species

Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba

Finding: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful

Location: Inner Reef, Lagoon, Seagrass Beds, Sandflats

Danger: None