With fantastic year-round weather and access to some of Western Australia’s most prolific waters, Perth is nothing short of an angler’s dream. There’s so much to choose from, which ironically makes picking the right place to wet your line a challenge. With that in mind, we decided to write up a list of best fishing spots in Perth.
Whether you’re into chasing monsters in the Indian Ocean, or taking it easy in the city’s protected waterways, Perth’s got something for every type of angler. To make our list, we went with a healthy mix of inshore and offshore fishing, as well as a few freshwater treasure troves. In no particular order, these are the best fishing spots in and around Perth.
Point Walter Jetty, Bicton
With its lawned picnic areas and expansive sandbar, Point Walter Jetty is the perfect spot for a quick riverside escape. This part of Bicton is popular with young families, and there are plenty of amenities to make them feel comfortable. Most importantly though, this place is great for fishing.
In the summer, this part of Swan River sees some fantastic Flathead action. The evenings are reserved for live baiting for Mulloway, with plenty more on offer. Expect an encounter with anything from Silver Bream to Yellowtail Whiting and Tailor.
North Mole Lighthouse, Fremantle
Jutting like a spear out into the Indian Ocean, North Mole jetty gives shore angling a whole other meaning. You’ll find a good year-round bite from the likes of Whiting, Herring and Blue Mackerel. In the summertime, you’ll be treated with a good Salmon bite, as well as some heart-pounding Shark action. Winter often brings Snapper to the area, so bring a jacket and prepare to hear the reel scream!
The northern part of North Mole rock is handicapped accessible, and offers some (albeit small) protection during a strong southerly. There’s a big parking lot, but not much else in terms of amenities. If you’re looking for something with creature comforts nearby, South Mole might be a better choice.
Yanchep Lagoon
Half an hour from CBD, Yanchep Lagoon is arguably one of the most productive shore fishing locales in the area. Since the lagoon is right next to a large beach, you might need to take a short walk to get away from the swimmers. But trust us, it’s worth it.
Yanchep Lagoon might be right on the ocean, but it doesn’t get as many waves as the beach. Nevertheless, we recommend you checking the tides and picking a day when the swell is not too big. The best time to wet the line is typically early morning. Toss some poppers for Tailor or Herring and you should have a nice late brekkie by the end of it.
Two Rocks
Just up the road from Yanchep, Two Rocks is a special fishery for those who’d like a chance at massive fish from shore. The local marina is a good place to drop a line, but you can also hit the beach and hook a nice one.
Similarly to Yanchep, Two Rocks offers good Herring and Tailor fishing. But what sets this place apart is that you can even land a big Dhufish. In fact, this is one of the rare places where you can catch this whopper without a boat.
Woodman Point Jetty, Cockburn
About 8 km south of Fremantle, the Woodman Point jetty offers its fair share of rod benders. From Pink Snapper to Tailor and Gummy Sharks, you’re bound to find something to match your skill level. Fishing here isn’t just about sports, mind you.
The jetty is part of Woodman Point Regional Park, a beachside haven offering all sorts of outdoor activities. To tie it all in, get yourself a few Herring and toss them on the barbecue!
The jetty has been a popular fishing spot for ages, and some signs of wear have started to show. Thankfully, this angling hotspot is expecting to receive a $10 million makeover in the next year or so, meaning you’ll be able to enjoy it for years to come.
Mosman Bay Jetty, Mosman Park
Fronting one of Perth’s favourite recreational areas, Mosman Bay Jetty gives instant access to some of the deepest parts of Swan River. Black and Silver Bream, Tailor and Mulloway, Flounder and Flathead – you name it – they’re all within arm’s length.
If you somehow manage not to catch anything, there’s a restaurant nearby that will gladly serve you the day’s catch. But our money says that you’ll hook a few tasty critters, in which case, you can toss them on the BBQ and enjoy your catch at one of the nearby picnic tables.
Lancelin
An hour’s drive north from CBD, Lancelin is a beachside fishing town ideal for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re casting from the beach, the jetty, or a boat, it doesn’t matter, the action is packed, and the fish are plenty. Get your hands on huge Mulloway and Tailor, or fill your bag with Herring. There’s even a good chance of hooking small Yellowtails.
And when your esky is nice and full, jump into your snorkelling gear and explore the gin-clear waters of Lancelin. Back ashore, the sand dunes are perfect if you’re into head-spinning quad rides. And if that’s not your thing, grab a cold one and soak in the views from the beachside cafe.
Rottnest Island
Most of the fishing spots in Perth are accessible by land. But if you have your sights set on a bucket lister, only one thing can foot the bill and that’s hopping on a charter boat. Searching for the right fishing spot will take you to Rottnest Island, a bonafide fish magnet.
Every summer, the waters off Rotto are fed by the warm Leeuwin current. The current brings a swarm of pelagic fish, and that’s an adventure you just can’t say no to. Get your hook into huge Yellowtails and Sambo, or catch delicious Pink Snapper. If you’re after something to write home about, tackle a Bluefin Tuna and fish the day away.
If you crave more information on how to fish in Australia, take a look at our Australia fishing guide and learn about fish species, hotspots, angling techniques, and regulations.
Listing all the fishing spots in Perth would make for one massive list. The Indian Ocean is right on your doorstep, after all. Still, we hope that the locales we mentioned will be enough to get you started. If you think we missed your favourite spot, fire away in the comments below!
