The West Coast Bioregion runs from Black Point, east of Augusta, to the Zuytdorp Cliffs, north of Kalbarri (all land and water south of 27° S and west of 115° 30' E). This area also includes the Houtman Abrolhos Islands.
In addition to the general fishing rules that can be found online and in our Statewide 
Recreational fishing guide, please be aware of specific rules in this bioregion covering restricted and closed areas, such as those below.
Marine reserves
Marine reserves include marine nature reserves, marine parks and marine management areas. Marine parks and reserves are managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife. However, we manage fishing inside and outside marine reserves. Marine reserves in the West Coast Bioregion include:
Fish Habitat Protection Areas and closed areas
Seasonal closures
West Coast demersal scalefish*
Pink snapper Cockburn Sound
Baldchin groper Abrolhos Islands
Blue swimmer crabs
Year-round closures
Areas closed to the take of specific species
A number of species found in Western Australia waters are protected under the Fish Resource Management Act 1994 and may not be taken by either commercial, charter or recreational fishers.
Our Fish Identification Guide will help you identify your catch. Additional information is also available if you are targeting particular species in this bioregion.
There are also a number of recreational fisheries and fishing activities in the West Coast Bioregion which require a separate licence.
Make sure you are familiar with all the rules that apply to these areas and fishing activities before you make your trip. If you are unsure about the rules or need further advice, contact your local Department of Fisheries office.
*NOTE: Separate bag and size limits still apply in the West Coast Bioregion for demersal finfish. Following research which showed overfishing, a series of measures were introduced to reduce the take of demersal finfish in this area.