South West Development Commission

Fishing and aquaculture

Fishing is smaller that other industries in the South West, but still an important contributor both commercially and as a recreational pursuit.

Commercial fishing

Commercial fleets operate out of Augusta, Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, Walpole and Windy Harbour.

Species caught off the South West coast include shark, mullet, whiting, herring, dhufish and snapper and lobster.

Aquaculture

Freshwater species, including marron, yabbies, silver perch and trout are farmed inland.

Marron is mostly farmed in purpose-built, semi-intensive pond systems in the lower South West.

Research facilities

The Department of Fisheries plays a significant role in developing the aquaculture industry, conducting research into refining and maximising production techniques for freshwater species.

The Department's Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre provides support to the industry through research facilities on fish nutrition, marron production and freshwater native fish.

Recreational fishing

Fishing enthusiasts fish and dive in the coastal waters and the many streams, rivers and estuaries for salmon, herring, dhufish, whiting, bream, marron, trout, crab, and rock lobster.

Recreational fishing and diving are important contributors to the local economy, attracting visitors to the region and generating economic activity through the sale and hire of vehicles, boats, gear, fuel, tackle and bait.

Marron is a large freshwater crayfish, farmed commercially in specially designed aerated ponds in the lower South West.

The South West provides many options for recreational fishing and diving. Whether it's fishing along the rugged southern coastline, finding quiet inland waterways, or throwing a line in as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, there's plenty of opportunities for all ages.