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Black mudfish

Neochanna diversus

Black mudfish© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Black mudfish (Neochanna diversus) is a small, nocturnal freshwater catadromous fish native to New Zealand's slow‑moving streams and ponds. It is prized by anglers for its secretive behavior and the challenge of locating it in dense vegetation.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Galaxiidae

Max Size

12.2 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Spring to early summer (September‑December) when water temperatures rise and spawning activity increases

Best Time

Dusk to night (sunset to midnight) when the fish are most active

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Black mudfish

  • Use light, quiet gear and target areas with dense submerged vegetation or leaf litter.
  • Fish near the edges of slow‑flowing sections, especially under overhanging roots or logs where mudfish hide.
  • Employ a slow, subtle jigging motion with a small soft plastic worm or live bait to mimic natural prey.
  • Check water temperature; mudfish are most active when it is between 12‑18 °C (54‑64 °F).

Top Fishing Locations for Black mudfish

Wainuiomata River

New Zealand
beginner70% Very Common

A well‑known, easily accessible river near Wellington with abundant black mudfish in its slow‑moving pools and backwaters.

Best: Nov - Mar

Lake Rotoiti (Nelson Lakes)

New Zealand
intermediate55% Common

Remote lake with extensive swampy margins; anglers target the mud‑filled shallows where black mudfish thrive.

Best: Oct - Feb

Waikato River Lower Reach

New Zealand
beginner65% Common

Slow‑moving sections near Hamilton host dense black mudfish populations; ideal for day trips from the city.

Best: Nov - Mar

Northland Kaipara Wetlands

New Zealand
expert35% Occasional

A remote, heavily vegetated swamp system; access requires a 4WD and local guide, but yields quality black mudfish bites.

Best: Dec - Feb

Lake Te Anau (Southland)

New Zealand
intermediate45% Occasional

High‑altitude lake with tributary streams that provide ideal cool‑water habitat for black mudfish.

Best: Dec - Feb

Ashburton River (Canterbury)

New Zealand
beginner60% Common

Wide, slow‑flowing river sections with muddy banks; popular among local anglers for consistent mudfish action.

Best: Nov - Mar

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Black mudfish

Recommended Equipment

RodUltra‑light spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall soft plastic grub or minnow, 1‑2 cm, or tiny surface popper
TechniqueSlow‑retrieval jigging or light float fishing with a small bobber

Best bait: Live minnows, small insects, or shrimp pieces