Perth metro
Offshore reef structure from Two Rocks through Rottnest approaches — boat fishing only when regulations allow. West Coast recreational boat fishing is closed until Spring 2027.
Fishing tips
Your Western Australia species and bait guide.
Practical guidance for Western Australia — organised by target species and region. Each recommendation links to our full product rundown with rigging, seasonality and local usage notes.
Earlybird Bait is wholesale only. Use this guide to choose bait with confidence, then see where to buy or browse the full product range.
Target species
Pink Snapper
Found across all WA bioregions from the Kimberley to the south coast. Target reef edges and gravel in deeper water — peak activity autumn–winter. Check current demersal closures: West Coast boat fishing is closed until Spring 2027; new statewide bag and size limits apply from June 2026.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
South West
Deeper offshore reef and gravel marks off the South West coast — boat access only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Mid West
Offshore reef structure from Jurien through Geraldton and the Abrolhos Islands — boat fishing only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Earlybird bait
Gardies
Fish whole or butterflied on a paternoster or running rig. Work the edge of reef and gravel where predators patrol.
Where: Offshore reef edges and broken ground across the WA coast — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure and South West offshore marks.
When: Year-round where legal; peak activity often autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027; new statewide limits from June 2026.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Octopus
Cut strips or chunks on paternoster rigs for reef species. Tough flesh withstands long soaks and current.
Where: Offshore reef across WA — Perth metro marks, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure, Abrolhos grounds and South West offshore. Check current demersal closures.
When: Reef species year-round where permitted. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premium Burley Pellets
Use in a burley cage on deeper marks or scatter from the boat. Higher oil content creates a stronger, longer-lasting trail.
Where: Reef patches, deeper inshore marks and anchored boat positions across WA where maximum attraction is needed.
When: Year-round; particularly effective on reef marks in autumn–winter when targeting snapper and skippy.
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Squid
Strips on paternoster for demersals; smaller strips for KG whiting. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
Where: Reef and gravel marks across WA — Perth metro offshore, Mid West reef structure, South West grounds and south coast marks. KG whiting on deeper sand.
When: Autumn–winter often strongest for snapper — subject to current closures and statewide demersal limits.
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Yellowtail
Fish whole on paternoster for reef species or butterflied for extra scent. Cut strips for lighter inshore rigs.
Where: Offshore reef edges, broken ground and deeper inshore marks across WA — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West and South West offshore.
When: Year-round where legal; peak demand autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
Full product guideTarget species
Dhufish
Highly prized West Coast demersal endemic to WA. Found on reef edges and gravel across the west coast bioregion. Boat-based closures apply — West Coast recreational boat fishing closed until Spring 2027. Land-based line fishing still permitted. Cannot be taken by spearfishing.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
Offshore reef structure from Two Rocks through Rottnest approaches — boat fishing only when regulations allow. West Coast recreational boat fishing is closed until Spring 2027.
South West
Deeper offshore reef and gravel marks off the South West coast — boat access only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Mid West
Offshore reef structure from Jurien through Geraldton and the Abrolhos Islands — boat fishing only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Earlybird bait
Gardies
Fish whole or butterflied on a paternoster or running rig. Work the edge of reef and gravel where predators patrol.
Where: Offshore reef edges and broken ground across the WA coast — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure and South West offshore marks.
When: Year-round where legal; peak activity often autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027; new statewide limits from June 2026.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Octopus
Cut strips or chunks on paternoster rigs for reef species. Tough flesh withstands long soaks and current.
Where: Offshore reef across WA — Perth metro marks, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure, Abrolhos grounds and South West offshore. Check current demersal closures.
When: Reef species year-round where permitted. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Squid
Strips on paternoster for demersals; smaller strips for KG whiting. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
Where: Reef and gravel marks across WA — Perth metro offshore, Mid West reef structure, South West grounds and south coast marks. KG whiting on deeper sand.
When: Autumn–winter often strongest for snapper — subject to current closures and statewide demersal limits.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Yellowtail
Fish whole on paternoster for reef species or butterflied for extra scent. Cut strips for lighter inshore rigs.
Where: Offshore reef edges, broken ground and deeper inshore marks across WA — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West and South West offshore.
When: Year-round where legal; peak demand autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
Full product guideTarget species
Baldchin Groper
Iconic WA demersal found on deeper reef structure in the West Coast and Gascoyne bioregions. Subject to the same demersal management framework — bag limit of two per day; confirm closures before fishing.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
Offshore reef structure from Two Rocks through Rottnest approaches — boat fishing only when regulations allow. West Coast recreational boat fishing is closed until Spring 2027.
South West
Deeper offshore reef and gravel marks off the South West coast — boat access only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Mid West
Offshore reef structure from Jurien through Geraldton and the Abrolhos Islands — boat fishing only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Earlybird bait
Octopus
Cut strips or chunks on paternoster rigs for reef species. Tough flesh withstands long soaks and current.
Where: Offshore reef across WA — Perth metro marks, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure, Abrolhos grounds and South West offshore. Check current demersal closures.
When: Reef species year-round where permitted. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027.
Full product guideTarget species
King George Whiting
Sought-after species found on sand and deeper inshore marks across WA's west and south coasts. Light tackle, small strips of squid or worms, and calm tidal movement produce the best sessions.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Coral Prawns
Use whole on light paternoster or running sinker rigs. Peel tail for extra scent if fish are finicky.
Where: Jetties, river edges, estuary flats and sheltered inshore marks across WA — from Perth metro through South West and Mid West coast.
When: Year-round effectiveness across WA; strong results in winter–spring whiting runs on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Octopus
Cut strips or chunks on paternoster rigs for reef species. Tough flesh withstands long soaks and current.
Where: Offshore reef across WA — Perth metro marks, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure, Abrolhos grounds and South West offshore. Check current demersal closures.
When: Reef species year-round where permitted. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Squid
Strips on paternoster for demersals; smaller strips for KG whiting. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
Where: Reef and gravel marks across WA — Perth metro offshore, Mid West reef structure, South West grounds and south coast marks. KG whiting on deeper sand.
When: Autumn–winter often strongest for snapper — subject to current closures and statewide demersal limits.
Full product guideTarget species
Whiting
Beach and estuary favourite found right across the WA coastline. Worms, cockles and light rigs on sand flats at dawn are the standard approach from Perth metro to South West and south coast estuaries.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Beach Worms
Small running sinker, long trace, bait fished slowly along gutter edges.
Where: Sandy beaches across WA — Perth metro gutters, South West surf beaches and Mid West sand flats.
When: Best in calm mornings spring through autumn.
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Blood Worms
Long-shank hook, minimal weight, let bait drift with current along edges.
Where: Estuary edges and flats across WA — Swan–Canning system, South West estuaries like the Kalgan and Wilson Inlet, and sheltered inshore water.
When: Consistent most of the year; excellent on calm winter mornings.
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Blue Bait
Use whole on paternoster or running sinker rigs. Fish near bottom for whiting and bream, mid-water for herring.
Where: Beaches, estuary edges and jetties across WA — from Perth metro through Busselton, Albany and Mid West coastal towns.
When: Year-round across WA; excellent on calm mornings and evening tides in cooler months.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Burley Pellets
Load a burley cage or scatter small handfuls regularly. No mixing required — use straight from the packet.
Where: Anchored sessions over reef, breakwalls and inshore marks across WA — effective from boats and shore.
When: Useful year-round across WA; especially effective when fish are scattered and need drawing into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Cockles
Present on light paternoster or running rig; crack shell slightly for extra scent in slow sessions.
Where: Beach edges and sheltered inshore drifts across WA where scent can spread.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Coral Prawns
Use whole on light paternoster or running sinker rigs. Peel tail for extra scent if fish are finicky.
Where: Jetties, river edges, estuary flats and sheltered inshore marks across WA — from Perth metro through South West and Mid West coast.
When: Year-round effectiveness across WA; strong results in winter–spring whiting runs on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Fish Oil
Add to pollard or soak baits lightly for extra attraction.
Where: Effective for anchored sessions over reef patches, breakwalls and deeper inshore marks across WA.
When: Useful year-round in WA, especially when fish are scattered and need to be drawn into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mulies
Whole for tailor on gang hooks in surf; halved for herring and whiting. Use as burley by crushing blocks.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — from Perth metro beaches through South West surf and Mid West coast to Kalbarri.
When: Peak through autumn–winter tailor runs on WA beaches; herring and whiting year-round.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Ox Heart
Cut pencil-thin strips; thread multiple times on long-shank hook. Fish mid-water for herring, near bottom for whiting.
Where: Jetties, river walls and beach edges across WA during herring and whiting runs.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Pollard
Blend with Earlybird Fish Oil to a damp consistency; feed steadily.
Where: Effective for anchored sessions over reef patches, breakwalls and deeper inshore marks across WA.
When: Useful year-round in WA, especially when fish are scattered and need to be drawn into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premium Burley Pellets
Use in a burley cage on deeper marks or scatter from the boat. Higher oil content creates a stronger, longer-lasting trail.
Where: Reef patches, deeper inshore marks and anchored boat positions across WA where maximum attraction is needed.
When: Year-round; particularly effective on reef marks in autumn–winter when targeting snapper and skippy.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premix Burley
Small, regular doses from cage or bucket; fish bait rods in the trail.
Where: Anchored on reef or nearshore lumps across WA to hold fish in your zone.
When: Useful year-round when fish are scattered.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Tube Worms
Similar to blood worms — light tackle, slow retrieve along transitions.
Where: Sand-and-weed transitions in estuaries across WA — Cockburn Sound, Swan–Canning, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Year-round with peaks on flood tides in cooler months.
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Whitebait
Use whole on small hooks for whiting and garfish. Thread two or three for larger targets like bream.
Where: Estuary flats, jetties and shallow inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, South West estuaries and south coast inlets.
When: Year-round on estuaries across WA; best on calm mornings and light-wind afternoons.
Full product guideTarget species
Herring
Found from Shark Bay southward around the entire WA coast. An inshore and estuarine species commonly caught from beaches, reefs, jetties and river edges. Winter–spring runs on calm mornings; small baits and a burley trail work well.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Blue Bait
Use whole on paternoster or running sinker rigs. Fish near bottom for whiting and bream, mid-water for herring.
Where: Beaches, estuary edges and jetties across WA — from Perth metro through Busselton, Albany and Mid West coastal towns.
When: Year-round across WA; excellent on calm mornings and evening tides in cooler months.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Burley Pellets
Load a burley cage or scatter small handfuls regularly. No mixing required — use straight from the packet.
Where: Anchored sessions over reef, breakwalls and inshore marks across WA — effective from boats and shore.
When: Useful year-round across WA; especially effective when fish are scattered and need drawing into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Cockles
Present on light paternoster or running rig; crack shell slightly for extra scent in slow sessions.
Where: Beach edges and sheltered inshore drifts across WA where scent can spread.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Fish Oil
Add to pollard or soak baits lightly for extra attraction.
Where: Effective for anchored sessions over reef patches, breakwalls and deeper inshore marks across WA.
When: Useful year-round in WA, especially when fish are scattered and need to be drawn into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mulies
Whole for tailor on gang hooks in surf; halved for herring and whiting. Use as burley by crushing blocks.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — from Perth metro beaches through South West surf and Mid West coast to Kalbarri.
When: Peak through autumn–winter tailor runs on WA beaches; herring and whiting year-round.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Ox Heart
Cut pencil-thin strips; thread multiple times on long-shank hook. Fish mid-water for herring, near bottom for whiting.
Where: Jetties, river walls and beach edges across WA during herring and whiting runs.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Pollard
Blend with Earlybird Fish Oil to a damp consistency; feed steadily.
Where: Effective for anchored sessions over reef patches, breakwalls and deeper inshore marks across WA.
When: Useful year-round in WA, especially when fish are scattered and need to be drawn into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premium Burley Pellets
Use in a burley cage on deeper marks or scatter from the boat. Higher oil content creates a stronger, longer-lasting trail.
Where: Reef patches, deeper inshore marks and anchored boat positions across WA where maximum attraction is needed.
When: Year-round; particularly effective on reef marks in autumn–winter when targeting snapper and skippy.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premix Burley
Small, regular doses from cage or bucket; fish bait rods in the trail.
Where: Anchored on reef or nearshore lumps across WA to hold fish in your zone.
When: Useful year-round when fish are scattered.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Scalies
Use whole for larger targets or halved for tailor on gang hooks. Tough skin withstands casting and current well.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast.
When: Strong through autumn–winter tailor and mulloway runs across WA beaches and river mouths.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Whitebait
Use whole on small hooks for whiting and garfish. Thread two or three for larger targets like bream.
Where: Estuary flats, jetties and shallow inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, South West estuaries and south coast inlets.
When: Year-round on estuaries across WA; best on calm mornings and light-wind afternoons.
Full product guideTarget species
Mulloway
Found across WA from Exmouth to the south coast — surf beaches, reef and rocky headlands, river mouths and estuaries. Best targeted at night or low light on running sinker rigs with mullet, mulies or fish strips. Swan River, Peel–Harvey and south coast rivers like the Kalgan are well-known fisheries.
Perth metroSouth WestMid WestNorth WA
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
North WA
Exmouth, Ningaloo and Kimberley coast — tropical species and different seasons; always confirm local closures and limits.
Earlybird bait
Bonito
Whole in crab pots for maximum oil release. Cut into steaks or fillets for shark and mulloway rigs.
Where: Offshore marks, crab grounds and heavy surf beaches across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef and north coast.
When: Year-round for crab; peak shark and mulloway demand in autumn–winter across WA.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Herring
Use whole in crab pots or cut into fillets and chunks for surf and bottom rigs. Halved for tailor on gang hooks.
Where: Surf beaches, crab grounds, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro beaches, Swan–Canning, South West surf and Mid West coast.
When: Effective year-round; strongest demand through autumn–winter crab season and tailor runs on WA beaches.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mulies
Whole for tailor on gang hooks in surf; halved for herring and whiting. Use as burley by crushing blocks.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — from Perth metro beaches through South West surf and Mid West coast to Kalbarri.
When: Peak through autumn–winter tailor runs on WA beaches; herring and whiting year-round.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mullet
Whole for crab pots and large predators; fillet or head sections for tailor and mulloway in surf gutters and river mouths.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and estuaries across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA.
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Mullet Fillets
Rig fillet strips on gang hooks for tailor or chunk on circle hooks for mulloway. Pre-cut saves time on the beach.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA — same appeal as whole mullet with less prep.
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Scalies
Use whole for larger targets or halved for tailor on gang hooks. Tough skin withstands casting and current well.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast.
When: Strong through autumn–winter tailor and mulloway runs across WA beaches and river mouths.
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Spleen
Chunk for pots; small strips on heavy river rigs at night for mulloway.
Where: Crab grounds and estuary edges across WA — effective in Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey and south coast estuaries.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Whiting Heads
Primary crab pot bait; also fished on heavy bottom rigs at night for mulloway.
Where: Crab grounds and estuary edges across WA — Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
Full product guideTarget species
Tailor
Found from Exmouth across WA's west and south coasts. An inshore predator caught from beaches, shore reefs, river mouths and estuaries. Dawn and dusk are peak times. Use gang hooks with mulies, whitebait or bluebait; a short heavy leader or wire prevents bite-offs.
Perth metroSouth WestMid WestNorth WA
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
North WA
Exmouth, Ningaloo and Kimberley coast — tropical species and different seasons; always confirm local closures and limits.
Earlybird bait
Bonito
Whole in crab pots for maximum oil release. Cut into steaks or fillets for shark and mulloway rigs.
Where: Offshore marks, crab grounds and heavy surf beaches across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef and north coast.
When: Year-round for crab; peak shark and mulloway demand in autumn–winter across WA.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Burley Pellets
Load a burley cage or scatter small handfuls regularly. No mixing required — use straight from the packet.
Where: Anchored sessions over reef, breakwalls and inshore marks across WA — effective from boats and shore.
When: Useful year-round across WA; especially effective when fish are scattered and need drawing into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Herring
Use whole in crab pots or cut into fillets and chunks for surf and bottom rigs. Halved for tailor on gang hooks.
Where: Surf beaches, crab grounds, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro beaches, Swan–Canning, South West surf and Mid West coast.
When: Effective year-round; strongest demand through autumn–winter crab season and tailor runs on WA beaches.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mulies
Whole for tailor on gang hooks in surf; halved for herring and whiting. Use as burley by crushing blocks.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — from Perth metro beaches through South West surf and Mid West coast to Kalbarri.
When: Peak through autumn–winter tailor runs on WA beaches; herring and whiting year-round.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mullet
Whole for crab pots and large predators; fillet or head sections for tailor and mulloway in surf gutters and river mouths.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and estuaries across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mullet Fillets
Rig fillet strips on gang hooks for tailor or chunk on circle hooks for mulloway. Pre-cut saves time on the beach.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA — same appeal as whole mullet with less prep.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Scalies
Use whole for larger targets or halved for tailor on gang hooks. Tough skin withstands casting and current well.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast.
When: Strong through autumn–winter tailor and mulloway runs across WA beaches and river mouths.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Yellowtail
Fish whole on paternoster for reef species or butterflied for extra scent. Cut strips for lighter inshore rigs.
Where: Offshore reef edges, broken ground and deeper inshore marks across WA — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West and South West offshore.
When: Year-round where legal; peak demand autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
Full product guideTarget species
Skippy
Silver trevally found from Exmouth across the entire southern WA coast, often in large schools around jetties, reefs and rocks. Light spinning gear and small baits work well. Bigger fish are found along the south coast, especially east of Esperance.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Burley Pellets
Load a burley cage or scatter small handfuls regularly. No mixing required — use straight from the packet.
Where: Anchored sessions over reef, breakwalls and inshore marks across WA — effective from boats and shore.
When: Useful year-round across WA; especially effective when fish are scattered and need drawing into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Coral Prawns
Use whole on light paternoster or running sinker rigs. Peel tail for extra scent if fish are finicky.
Where: Jetties, river edges, estuary flats and sheltered inshore marks across WA — from Perth metro through South West and Mid West coast.
When: Year-round effectiveness across WA; strong results in winter–spring whiting runs on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Fish Oil
Add to pollard or soak baits lightly for extra attraction.
Where: Effective for anchored sessions over reef patches, breakwalls and deeper inshore marks across WA.
When: Useful year-round in WA, especially when fish are scattered and need to be drawn into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Gardies
Fish whole or butterflied on a paternoster or running rig. Work the edge of reef and gravel where predators patrol.
Where: Offshore reef edges and broken ground across the WA coast — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure and South West offshore marks.
When: Year-round where legal; peak activity often autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027; new statewide limits from June 2026.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Mulies
Whole for tailor on gang hooks in surf; halved for herring and whiting. Use as burley by crushing blocks.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — from Perth metro beaches through South West surf and Mid West coast to Kalbarri.
When: Peak through autumn–winter tailor runs on WA beaches; herring and whiting year-round.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Pollard
Blend with Earlybird Fish Oil to a damp consistency; feed steadily.
Where: Effective for anchored sessions over reef patches, breakwalls and deeper inshore marks across WA.
When: Useful year-round in WA, especially when fish are scattered and need to be drawn into range.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premium Burley Pellets
Use in a burley cage on deeper marks or scatter from the boat. Higher oil content creates a stronger, longer-lasting trail.
Where: Reef patches, deeper inshore marks and anchored boat positions across WA where maximum attraction is needed.
When: Year-round; particularly effective on reef marks in autumn–winter when targeting snapper and skippy.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Premix Burley
Small, regular doses from cage or bucket; fish bait rods in the trail.
Where: Anchored on reef or nearshore lumps across WA to hold fish in your zone.
When: Useful year-round when fish are scattered.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
Full product guideEarlybird bait
Scalies
Use whole for larger targets or halved for tailor on gang hooks. Tough skin withstands casting and current well.
Where: Surf beaches, gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast.
When: Strong through autumn–winter tailor and mulloway runs across WA beaches and river mouths.
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Yellowtail
Fish whole on paternoster for reef species or butterflied for extra scent. Cut strips for lighter inshore rigs.
Where: Offshore reef edges, broken ground and deeper inshore marks across WA — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West and South West offshore.
When: Year-round where legal; peak demand autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures before offshore trips.
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Bream
Estuarine species found across WA — Swan–Canning, South West rivers and the south coast. The Kalgan River near Albany is one of WA's finest bream locations. Target snags, flats and drop-offs with light tackle and small baits or lures.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Beach Worms
Small running sinker, long trace, bait fished slowly along gutter edges.
Where: Sandy beaches across WA — Perth metro gutters, South West surf beaches and Mid West sand flats.
When: Best in calm mornings spring through autumn.
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Blood Worms
Long-shank hook, minimal weight, let bait drift with current along edges.
Where: Estuary edges and flats across WA — Swan–Canning system, South West estuaries like the Kalgan and Wilson Inlet, and sheltered inshore water.
When: Consistent most of the year; excellent on calm winter mornings.
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Blue Bait
Use whole on paternoster or running sinker rigs. Fish near bottom for whiting and bream, mid-water for herring.
Where: Beaches, estuary edges and jetties across WA — from Perth metro through Busselton, Albany and Mid West coastal towns.
When: Year-round across WA; excellent on calm mornings and evening tides in cooler months.
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Cockles
Present on light paternoster or running rig; crack shell slightly for extra scent in slow sessions.
Where: Beach edges and sheltered inshore drifts across WA where scent can spread.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Coral Prawns
Use whole on light paternoster or running sinker rigs. Peel tail for extra scent if fish are finicky.
Where: Jetties, river edges, estuary flats and sheltered inshore marks across WA — from Perth metro through South West and Mid West coast.
When: Year-round effectiveness across WA; strong results in winter–spring whiting runs on calm mornings.
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River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
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Tube Worms
Similar to blood worms — light tackle, slow retrieve along transitions.
Where: Sand-and-weed transitions in estuaries across WA — Cockburn Sound, Swan–Canning, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Year-round with peaks on flood tides in cooler months.
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Whitebait
Use whole on small hooks for whiting and garfish. Thread two or three for larger targets like bream.
Where: Estuary flats, jetties and shallow inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, South West estuaries and south coast inlets.
When: Year-round on estuaries across WA; best on calm mornings and light-wind afternoons.
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Flathead
Found in sandy estuaries and inshore waters across WA. Target sand-and-weed transitions with light tackle and baits fished on the bottom. Common in Perth metro estuaries, South West inlets and south coast waterways.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Beach Worms
Small running sinker, long trace, bait fished slowly along gutter edges.
Where: Sandy beaches across WA — Perth metro gutters, South West surf beaches and Mid West sand flats.
When: Best in calm mornings spring through autumn.
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Blood Worms
Long-shank hook, minimal weight, let bait drift with current along edges.
Where: Estuary edges and flats across WA — Swan–Canning system, South West estuaries like the Kalgan and Wilson Inlet, and sheltered inshore water.
When: Consistent most of the year; excellent on calm winter mornings.
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Blue Bait
Use whole on paternoster or running sinker rigs. Fish near bottom for whiting and bream, mid-water for herring.
Where: Beaches, estuary edges and jetties across WA — from Perth metro through Busselton, Albany and Mid West coastal towns.
When: Year-round across WA; excellent on calm mornings and evening tides in cooler months.
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Coral Prawns
Use whole on light paternoster or running sinker rigs. Peel tail for extra scent if fish are finicky.
Where: Jetties, river edges, estuary flats and sheltered inshore marks across WA — from Perth metro through South West and Mid West coast.
When: Year-round effectiveness across WA; strong results in winter–spring whiting runs on calm mornings.
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River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
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Tube Worms
Similar to blood worms — light tackle, slow retrieve along transitions.
Where: Sand-and-weed transitions in estuaries across WA — Cockburn Sound, Swan–Canning, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Year-round with peaks on flood tides in cooler months.
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Whitebait
Use whole on small hooks for whiting and garfish. Thread two or three for larger targets like bream.
Where: Estuary flats, jetties and shallow inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, South West estuaries and south coast inlets.
When: Year-round on estuaries across WA; best on calm mornings and light-wind afternoons.
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Flounder
Found in inshore and estuarine waters across WA. The Swan River and Wilson Inlet are noted fisheries. Target sandy bottom near drop-offs with bottom-fished baits like prawns or whitebait on simple running sinker rigs.
Perth metroSouth West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Earlybird bait
Blood Worms
Long-shank hook, minimal weight, let bait drift with current along edges.
Where: Estuary edges and flats across WA — Swan–Canning system, South West estuaries like the Kalgan and Wilson Inlet, and sheltered inshore water.
When: Consistent most of the year; excellent on calm winter mornings.
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Tube Worms
Similar to blood worms — light tackle, slow retrieve along transitions.
Where: Sand-and-weed transitions in estuaries across WA — Cockburn Sound, Swan–Canning, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Year-round with peaks on flood tides in cooler months.
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Cobbler
Estuary species found across southern WA. Target sandy and muddy bottom in rivers and estuaries. Handle with extreme care — cobbler have venomous dorsal spines.
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
Earlybird bait
Blood Worms
Long-shank hook, minimal weight, let bait drift with current along edges.
Where: Estuary edges and flats across WA — Swan–Canning system, South West estuaries like the Kalgan and Wilson Inlet, and sheltered inshore water.
When: Consistent most of the year; excellent on calm winter mornings.
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River Prawns
Light running sinker down the jetty wall or over sand flats. For herring, fish mid-water with small pieces.
Where: Jetties, river edges and sheltered inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, Swan–Canning, Cockburn Sound, South West estuaries and Mid West jetties.
When: Winter–spring herring runs; whiting year-round on calm mornings.
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Tube Worms
Similar to blood worms — light tackle, slow retrieve along transitions.
Where: Sand-and-weed transitions in estuaries across WA — Cockburn Sound, Swan–Canning, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Year-round with peaks on flood tides in cooler months.
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Garfish
Surface-feeding species found around jetties and estuary flats across southern WA. Light tackle with small whitebait or prawn pieces fished under a float or close to the surface.
Perth metroSouth West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Earlybird bait
Whitebait
Use whole on small hooks for whiting and garfish. Thread two or three for larger targets like bream.
Where: Estuary flats, jetties and shallow inshore marks across WA — Perth metro, South West estuaries and south coast inlets.
When: Year-round on estuaries across WA; best on calm mornings and light-wind afternoons.
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Samson Fish
Perth metroSouth WestMid West
Perth metro
Offshore reef structure from Two Rocks through Rottnest approaches — boat fishing only when regulations allow. West Coast recreational boat fishing is closed until Spring 2027.
South West
Deeper offshore reef and gravel marks off the South West coast — boat access only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Mid West
Offshore reef structure from Jurien through Geraldton and the Abrolhos Islands — boat fishing only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Earlybird bait
Gardies
Fish whole or butterflied on a paternoster or running rig. Work the edge of reef and gravel where predators patrol.
Where: Offshore reef edges and broken ground across the WA coast — Perth metro reefs, Rottnest approaches, Mid West reef structure and South West offshore marks.
When: Year-round where legal; peak activity often autumn–winter on deeper marks. Check current demersal closures — West Coast boat fishing closed until Spring 2027; new statewide limits from June 2026.
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Crab
Blue swimmer crab fishing in estuaries across WA — Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey, South West inlets and south coast waterways. Use approved bait in pots and check size, possession and gear rules for your waterway.
Perth metroSouth WestMid WestNorth WA
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
North WA
Exmouth, Ningaloo and Kimberley coast — tropical species and different seasons; always confirm local closures and limits.
Earlybird bait
Bonito
Whole in crab pots for maximum oil release. Cut into steaks or fillets for shark and mulloway rigs.
Where: Offshore marks, crab grounds and heavy surf beaches across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef and north coast.
When: Year-round for crab; peak shark and mulloway demand in autumn–winter across WA.
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Herring
Use whole in crab pots or cut into fillets and chunks for surf and bottom rigs. Halved for tailor on gang hooks.
Where: Surf beaches, crab grounds, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro beaches, Swan–Canning, South West surf and Mid West coast.
When: Effective year-round; strongest demand through autumn–winter crab season and tailor runs on WA beaches.
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Mullet
Whole for crab pots and large predators; fillet or head sections for tailor and mulloway in surf gutters and river mouths.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and estuaries across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA.
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Mullet Fillets
Rig fillet strips on gang hooks for tailor or chunk on circle hooks for mulloway. Pre-cut saves time on the beach.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA — same appeal as whole mullet with less prep.
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Spleen
Chunk for pots; small strips on heavy river rigs at night for mulloway.
Where: Crab grounds and estuary edges across WA — effective in Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey and south coast estuaries.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Tuna Heads
Secure in crab pots or fish on heavy gear for shark sessions.
Where: Offshore marks and crab grounds across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef, Mid West offshore and north coast.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Whiting Heads
Primary crab pot bait; also fished on heavy bottom rigs at night for mulloway.
Where: Crab grounds and estuary edges across WA — Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Crayfish
Western rock lobster is found along the WA coast. A recreational fishing licence is required. Check current season dates, size limits, possession limits and zone rules before fishing.
Perth metroSouth West
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Earlybird bait
Mullet
Whole for crab pots and large predators; fillet or head sections for tailor and mulloway in surf gutters and river mouths.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and estuaries across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA.
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Shark
Heavy offshore and surf sessions across WA; use appropriate bait size and safety practices. Check species-specific size and possession limits for your bioregion.
Perth metroSouth WestMid WestNorth WA
Perth metro
From Two Rocks and Hillarys through Fremantle, Cockburn Sound, the Swan–Canning estuary and Mandurah — jetties, river edges, beaches and nearshore reef.
South West
Augusta through Busselton, Dunsborough and Albany — surf gutters, estuaries and inshore reef when weather allows.
Mid West
Jurien, Geraldton and Kalbarri — strong reef and beach fishing; check zone-specific rules before you keep fish.
North WA
Exmouth, Ningaloo and Kimberley coast — tropical species and different seasons; always confirm local closures and limits.
Earlybird bait
Bonito
Whole in crab pots for maximum oil release. Cut into steaks or fillets for shark and mulloway rigs.
Where: Offshore marks, crab grounds and heavy surf beaches across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef and north coast.
When: Year-round for crab; peak shark and mulloway demand in autumn–winter across WA.
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Herring
Use whole in crab pots or cut into fillets and chunks for surf and bottom rigs. Halved for tailor on gang hooks.
Where: Surf beaches, crab grounds, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro beaches, Swan–Canning, South West surf and Mid West coast.
When: Effective year-round; strongest demand through autumn–winter crab season and tailor runs on WA beaches.
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Mullet
Whole for crab pots and large predators; fillet or head sections for tailor and mulloway in surf gutters and river mouths.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and estuaries across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA.
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Mullet Fillets
Rig fillet strips on gang hooks for tailor or chunk on circle hooks for mulloway. Pre-cut saves time on the beach.
Where: Surf beaches, deep gutters, river mouths and groynes across WA — Perth metro surf, South West beaches and south coast river mouths.
When: Strong in autumn–winter surf and river mouth night tides across WA — same appeal as whole mullet with less prep.
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Spleen
Chunk for pots; small strips on heavy river rigs at night for mulloway.
Where: Crab grounds and estuary edges across WA — effective in Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey and south coast estuaries.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Tuna Heads
Secure in crab pots or fish on heavy gear for shark sessions.
Where: Offshore marks and crab grounds across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef, Mid West offshore and north coast.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Whiting Heads
Primary crab pot bait; also fished on heavy bottom rigs at night for mulloway.
Where: Crab grounds and estuary edges across WA — Swan–Canning, Peel–Harvey, South West inlets and south coast estuaries.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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Large Demersals
Deep-water reef species across WA bioregions. Subject to demersal scalefish management — check closures, bag limits and release weight requirements before fishing.
Perth metroSouth WestMid WestNorth WA
Perth metro
Offshore reef structure from Two Rocks through Rottnest approaches — boat fishing only when regulations allow. West Coast recreational boat fishing is closed until Spring 2027.
South West
Deeper offshore reef and gravel marks off the South West coast — boat access only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
Mid West
Offshore reef structure from Jurien through Geraldton and the Abrolhos Islands — boat fishing only. Check current demersal closures and bag limits.
North WA
Offshore reef in the Gascoyne and Kimberley — boat fishing only. Different demersal rules apply; confirm limits before fishing.
Earlybird bait
Tuna Heads
Secure in crab pots or fish on heavy gear for shark sessions.
Where: Offshore marks and crab grounds across WA — Perth metro deep marks, South West reef, Mid West offshore and north coast.
When: Performs across WA seasons, with best windows around dawn, dusk and tidal movement.
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