Joanna James
The waters around the Gulf of Oman are abundant with a rich and diverse marine life, including a countless number of big fish species. There are too many to list, but here are a few common species.
A spirited fish that always puts up a good fight, the brassy trevally is a favourite in sport fishing. Weighing in at around 6.5 kg, the fish is easily recognisable by its black dotted, silver body. It is most active during the day, but is constantly on the hunt for prey. The fish feeds on smaller fish and invertebrates. The young fish can be found in schools near the coast, while adults mostly live solitary lives; on rare occasions they have been seen moving in small groups.
One of the largest species found in these waters, the greater amberjack is highly prized catch for big game enthusiasts due to it formidable temperament and fighting spirit. The fish can weigh up to a staggering 100 kilos, and is easily spotted by its distinctive silvery-blue colour, which is further enhanced by a gold line which runs along its sides. Generally, adult greater amberjack lives in schools around deep reefs out at sea, but the younger fish can be seen swimming in large schools off the coast.
The permit can generally be found in shallow waters near beaches, feeding on crabs, shrimps and fish, either alone or small schools. Its wary character makes it hard to catch, while its high-spirit guarantees a fight, from which it usually wins, after breaking the line. The best way to catch a permit is through trickery while it feeds in shallow waters.
The most commonly seen fish is the giant trevally, also known as the giant kingfish. A predatory species, its formidable size and weight make it a vigorous fighter, and a prize catch. The giant trevally is easy to identify by its flat, oval shaped body, huge head with oversized eyes, and large tail fin. The fish usually has black spots or is covered in light streaks, with typical colour ranging from grey to black. Its food source is mainly smaller fish and shellfish, although on rare occasions, it has been spotted feeding on sea turtles. The species are usually found swimming in lagoons or near coral reefs, and shallow waters off the coast, making them a prime catch for local fisherman and even tourists staying at coastal resorts, like the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, for example, a Salalah beach resort.
More commonly known as the Mahi Mahi, it is a powerful fish which can reach speeds of up to 92km/hr. The male and females can be differentiated by size - the males are larger and feature a bump on their foreheads, while the females are smaller. Their colours can alter to match their environment, going from metallic blue-green, gold, brown, red, etc. Making them quite hard to spot. The dorado can be found out at sea and near the coast, feeding on squid, shellfish, mackerel ad other smaller fish.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
