Perth fishing is centred upon the bluewater, with the Swan River offering sheltered estuary fishing.
Perth anglers enjoy a mix of tropical and temperate fish species. The area hosts annual runs of blue swimmer crabs and prawns, with some regional dams and rivers stocked with trout.
Rottnest Island, located offshore, provides sheltered spots for both boaters and land-based anglers. Cockburn Sound, inside Garden Island, offers protected waters ideal for trailer-boaters.
South of Perth, Mandurah boasts three rivers feeding into Peel Inlet: the Serpentine to the north, the Murray to the east, and the Harvey to the south.
Bluewater fishing is heavily influenced by the Leeuwin Current, which warms coastal waters between 17°C and 25°C. Seasonal highlights include spanish mackerel, tailor, pink snapper, and silver trevally, along with gamefish such as tuna, dolphin fish, wahoo, kingfish, and marlin.
Heavy storms often bring inshore species like pink snapper to rock groynes. Herring, locally known as tommy ruffs in South Australia, along with silver trevally (“skippy”), salmon, and tailor, are abundant at various times of the year.
WA’s southern coastline, stretching from Perth to the South Australian border, primarily supports temperate species like mulloway, herring, and whiting, along with offshore species like samson fish and spotted whiting.
The deep channels on the east side of Garden Island are excellent for snapper and mulloway, particularly after dark. Squid and blue swimmer crabs are also prevalent in the seagrass beds and sandy areas.
Carnac Island, to the north of Garden Island, features a mix of seagrass habitats and rocky oceanfronts ideal for samson, dhufish, snapper, and squid.
How to fish Perth
Seasons
Garfish – best in winter.
Herring – abundant in summer. Use berley and small hooks.
Mackerel – appear after Christmas when offshore waters reach 22°C.
Pink snapper – available year-round but peak after winter storms. Be aware of Cockburn Sound restrictions.
Squid – found near Garden Island and lit jetties at night.
Crabs – best in summer and autumn.
Bait, Lures & Tackle
Livebait, including squid, is effective for mulloway and kingfish. Pilchards and herring fillets work well for snapper. Soft plastics and chrome slices are popular for trevally, salmon, and snook.
Weather & Tides
Perth’s tides are moderate. The “Fremantle Doctor” sea breeze is a distinctive feature, influencing fishing conditions.
Special Features
Perth’s blend of tropical and temperate species, alongside its scenic clear waters, makes it a unique fishing destination.
Perth tides
Perth stocked waters
Perth dam levels
WA fishing regulations
WA marine parks
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