If you are confused about what fishing is still legal in Western Australia right now, you are not alone. The demersal fishing reforms introduced in late 2025 have created one of the most complex rule environments WA fishers have seen in decades.
This guide breaks down exactly what is allowed and what is banned in the West Coast Bioregion, based on how you fish, not vague summaries. It is written to help you make a clear legal decision before you pick up a rod.
First, confirm where you are fishing (this step matters)
Almost every rule discussed below depends on location.
The West Coast Bioregion covers much of WA’s most heavily fished coastline, including the Perth metropolitan area and popular boating grounds. The demersal fishing closures apply very differently inside this bioregion compared to other parts of WA.
Before reading any further, you should:
- Confirm whether your fishing location is inside the West Coast Bioregion
- Use the official WA fishing rules location checker to avoid guessing
Many breaches happen simply because fishers assume a rule applies “everywhere”.
What “demersal scalefish” means in plain English
Demersal fish are species that live near the seabed. In WA, these are highly targeted because they are prized table fish and commonly caught from boats.
Common demersal species include:
- WA dhufish
- Pink snapper
- Baldchin groper
- Breaksea cod
These species are the core focus of the current reforms introduced by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, under policy set by the Government of Western Australia.
Method 1: boat based recreational fishing (most restricted)
Is boat based demersal fishing allowed in the West Coast Bioregion?
No.
Boat based recreational fishing for demersal scalefish in the West Coast Bioregion is closed until Spring 2027.
This is the single most important rule change affecting WA fishers.
What counts as “boat based”?
If you are fishing from:
- A powered boat
- A kayak
- A jet ski
- A tender or inflatable
You are considered boat based, even if you are only metres from shore.
What happens if you accidentally catch a demersal fish?
If a demersal scalefish is caught from a boat during the closure:
- It must be returned to the water as soon as possible
- You cannot retain it
- You should minimise handling to improve survival
This applies even if:
- The fish is legal size
- You intended to target a different species
Common mistakes that lead to fines
- Fishing “just for a quick drop” near reef from a boat
- Targeting species that commonly mix with demersals
- Assuming shallow water is exempt (it is not)
Method 2: land based recreational fishing (different rules apply)
Is land based demersal fishing allowed?
Yes, with conditions.
Land based fishers in the West Coast Bioregion may still fish for demersal scalefish, provided:
- They are fishing from shore
- They are outside existing spawning closures
- They follow species specific bag and size limits
This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the reforms.
What counts as land based?
Land based fishing includes:
- Beach fishing
- Rock fishing
- Jetty fishing
- Harbour walls
If your feet are on land and you are not standing on a vessel, you are land based.
Important warning
Spawning closures still apply, and they change seasonally. Many people breach rules not because land based fishing is banned, but because they fish during a spawning closure without realising it.
Method 3: spearfishing (high risk of misunderstanding)
Is spearfishing still allowed?
Yes, but with critical exclusions.
Spearfishing rules in the West Coast Bioregion
- Land based spearfishing is permitted
- Spearfishing for WA dhufish is not permitted
- Other demersal species may be permitted depending on rules and closures
This is an area where misinformation spreads quickly online. Always cross-check species rules before entering the water.
Method 4: charter fishing (why many operators have stopped)
Charter fishing is regulated separately from private recreational fishing.
Under the new reforms:
- Charter fishing in the Perth metropolitan area has been closed
- Limited demersal charter activity may continue in parts of the wider West Coast Bioregion under strict quota systems
This is why many charter operators, including WA Fishing, have paused bookings. Even where activity may be technically legal, the risk of non compliance and customer confusion is high.
Method 5: commercial fishing (major structural change)
Commercial fishing has undergone the most severe shift.
From 1 January 2026:
- The West Coast Bioregion is closed to commercial demersal fishing
- Long standing operators have lost access to key fisheries
This has triggered legal challenges and strong public debate, but the rules currently stand as announced.
Common scenarios people ask about (quick answers)
“Can I fish from a kayak?”
No. Kayaks are considered vessels. Kayak fishing for demersal species in the West Coast Bioregion is banned until Spring 2027.
“Can I fish for snapper from the beach?”
Possibly, depending on:
- Location
- Time of year
- Spawning closures
Always check current seasonal rules.
“What if I target non demersal species from a boat?”
You must ensure:
- Your gear and methods do not reasonably target demersal species
- You immediately release any demersal fish accidentally caught
This is a grey area and a common source of enforcement action.
Why the rules feel so strict (context that helps)
Demersal species:
- Grow slowly
- Breed later in life
- Are heavily targeted in WA’s most populated coastal areas
Because of this, recovery timelines are measured in years, not seasons. That is why the closure runs through to Spring 2027 rather than a short seasonal ban.
How to avoid fines and accidental breaches
Follow this checklist every time:
- Confirm your location and bioregion
- Decide how you are fishing (boat, land, spear)
- Check seasonal closures for your area
- Check species specific rules
- Adjust your target species and gear accordingly
If any step feels uncertain, do not fish that method in that location.
Why this guide exists
The demersal reforms have created confusion, frustration, and strong emotions across WA. That is understandable.
This page exists to do one thing well:
Help people fish legally without guessing.
Final note for WA Fishing customers
Due to the current demersal fishing settings:
- WA Fishing is not taking new bookings
- We will not operate trips that risk breaching rules or disappointing customers
- Updates will be published as soon as official settings change
If and when charter conditions become viable again, this site will reflect that immediately.