Elops hawaiiensis/e. machnata

The giant herring, cousin of the famous tarpon and bonefish, likes the sandy bottoms near the reefs. It is easily recognized by its very elongated and narrow body, its forked tail, its yellowish head and its very split jaw.

It can be found all year round, in pairs and sometimes in large schools.

In Indonesia its encounter is infrequent but regular.

The giant herring is a rather skittish fish except when it is reassured by the presence of the school. Even in this case, it usually has to be shot from high distance which requires a long-range and accurate speargun. After the shot, it creates no particular difficulty.

Like the milkfish, and despite an acceptable taste, the giant herring has many bones which makes its consumption unpleasant. This is not a recommended catch.