Sickle fish (or butter bream) are a common bait fishing target in our tidal estuaries and the salt water section of river mouths.

This pretty little fish grows to the size of a large dinner plate, and is just as round with distinguishing black spots over bright silver bodies.

They use the current to their advantage, turning side on and offer a much more spirited fight than their size would suggest.

Best caught on light spinning tackle, a standard running rig, 1 to 1/0 hook baited with peeled or live prawn.

They are good eating, as their common name would suggest. A great family fish.