Fish Tagging

Recreational anglers are shaping our understanding of fish behaviour and biology

What is tagging?

Tagging fish is the method of implanting unique identifiable “tags” into fish that scientists use to answer specific research questions. There are many types of tags available on the market all with specific purposes. The most common tags used by citizen scientists are plastic dipped dart tags. These lock into the basal fin rays and can remain in place for long periods of time. 

What data is collected?

  1. Tag number
  2. Name of angler
  3. Species 
  4. Total length
  5. Date of capture
  6. Location of release

How is it used?

The data is used by scientists at the South Australian Research and Development Institute to answer pressing research questions surrounding fish movements/migrations and growth over time. This information aids in creating a clearer picture in how fish stocks should be managed. 

What can I tag?

SAFTAG, ANSA S.A. and SARDI have agreed that the following species will be given priority for tagging as part of the SAFTAG program:

 

  • Yellowtail Kingfish
  • Australian Salmon
  • Black Bream
  • King George Whiting
  • Mulloway
  • Snapper
  • Murray Cod
  • Golden Perch (Callop)

Getting Started

SAFTAG

SAFTAG is a fish-tagging program operated by the South Australian Branch of the Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA S.A.). It operates under the umbrella of the national AUSTAG program developed by the Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA)

Most states have their own locally managed tagging program targeting fish of importance to that state. The SAFTAG program is aimed at South Australian fish and is funded from a variety of sources, including Department of Recreation and Sport and Industry sponsors throughout the State.

What is in the kit?

  • SAFTAG logbook
  • Plastic-dipped dart tags x10
  • Applicator

How to Tag a Fish

  1. Remove (or lift) a scale with the applicator point just below the base of a dorsal spine, usually the second to fourth depending on the species. Avoid placing the tag deeply into muscle.
  2. Hold needle with exposed tag barb in line with fish, with barb facing head. Turn needle so barb is on the fish side.
  3. Start inserting the needle at a shallow angle under the scales until you feel it pierce the skin, then raise the needle to an angle of 45~ so making clearance for the barb.
  4. When barb is below skin, return to a shallow angle and insert until the barb is just beyond the fin spine. A slight click ” can be felt as the barb slides over the bone and locks behind it.
  5. Pause for a second then withdraw the needle smoothly. A slight tug will help “set” the tag. Particularly with small tags/small fish do not place any undue strain on either tag or fish after insertion.
  6. The fish should then be gently released. Fish showing undue stress, damage or inability to swim should not be released if tagged.

How to tag a pelagic fish (onboard)

Tuna Champions run us through how to tag a small (<15kg) pelagic fish safely and effectively onboard.

How to tag a large pelagic fish (boatside)

Tuna Champions run us through how to tag a large (>15kg) pelagic fish boatside (skip to 1:29)

Want to become a Citizen Scientist?

Sign up as a RecFish SA Citizen Science Member to start your journey.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This