Beginners Guide to Fishing in Perth in 2026: 15 Best Spots, Tips, Varieties + More!

Perth is home to some of the best beaches in the world (in my opinion!). Its coastline spans a whopping 150 km, so naturally, the fishing opportunities are almost endless. These pristine beaches paired with countless riverbank and inlet spots offer some pretty diverse fishing in the region. 

I’ve been absolutely obsessed with fishing since my first catch at 6 years old. I still remember the thrill of heading out on the tinny and reeling in whiting after whiting with my Poppy as a kid and I want to make sure you can experience this too. I’ve been busy hunting around Perth for the best spots to chuck in a line and you can read all about them below. You’ll also discover details on the most common species, size and bag limits, the best time to target them and tips for success. 

Why Go Fishing in Perth?

Western Australia is home to plenty of amazing fishing destinations. Perth boasts a whopping 19 city beaches, along with the Swan River, which winds its way through more than 27 suburbs over a 72 km stretch. This makes Perth an excellent spot for anyone keen to chuck in a line!

There’s a huge range of species to target, from pink snapper and whiting to squid. The fishing spots are just as diverse, ranging from offshore locations to beach spots. Some are easily accessible to everyone and beginner-friendly, while others offer a bit more seclusion and challenge. Read on for the best fishing spots in Perth, the species you can target, and all my top tips for enjoying the great outdoors!

The 15 Best Fishing Spots in Perth

Perth’s 150 km of coastline, spans from Two Rocks in the North to Mandurah in the South, paired with the 72 km stretch of Swan River snaking through the city and you’ve got almost endless fishing opportunities – it can be hard to know where to start! 

So, if you’re after the best fishing spots in Perth, look no further! Read on for the 15 best Perth fishing spots, the common species to target at each and the best time to check them out. 

1. Swan River

The Swan River is the heart of Perth’s outdoor recreation scene. On any given weekend, you’ll see morning walkers enjoying its shores, kayakers gliding through its waters, rowers honing their skills, people relaxing on boats as they manoeuvre downstream, and of course, keen anglers casting their lines from boats and the banks.

The river is home to some popular fish species, including black bream, tailor, flathead, mulloway, and blue swimmer crabs. It’s suitable for a variety of fishing methods – bait fishing, lure fishing and even fly fishing. It’s also hugely accessible to both shore-based and boat anglers. There are numerous jetties, banks and boat ramps to be explored so there’s something for people of all skill levels. 

Some of the best Swan River fishing spots include: 

Mosman Bay, Mosman Park

Mossman Bay is one of the deeper parts of the Swan River, so there’s a wide range of fish you can target here, including skippy, black bream, mulloway, flathead, tailor, flounder and even blue swimmer crabs. 

Mossman Bay is great for fishing all year round and the nearby facilities like picnic tables, BBQs make it a comfortable fishing spot. 

Point Walter Jetty, Bicton

Point Walter Jetty is a popular recreation spot in Perth. The jetty allows access to some of the deeper parts of the Swan River or you can wade in from the shallows. Common catches here include skippy, yellowtail whiting, tailor, mulloway and flathead.

Point Walter Reserve also offers some stunning views of the Swan River and has great facilities including toilets, BBQs, playground, cafe and kiosk, making it an easy and accessible Perth fishing spot. 

Riverside Gardens, Bayswater

Riverside Gardens is a great family-friendly fishing spot. Common catches here include black bream, tailor, flathead and yellowtail whiting. There’s even a small jetty, great for casting a line. 

Claremont Jetty, Claremont

Claremont Jetty provides easy access to some of the deeper parts of the Swan River. Common catches from the jetty include black bream, tailor, flathead, herring, yellowfin whiting, Mulloway and skippy. 

Claremont Jetty is a versatile spot where you can try out different techniques like casting under the jetty to target black bream, using lures in the shallows and bottom fishing for flathead and squid fishing under the jetty. The area has great facilities including toilets, grassy areas, playgrounds and nearby cafes.  

Read this next: Best Soft Plastic Lures for Fishing in WA Estuaries

2. Hillarys Boat Harbour, Hillarys

Hillarys Boat Harbour is one of the best Perth fishing spots as it offers plenty of locations to fish, each offering something unique. Try fishing from the break walls, the north wall, off the boardwalk or from jetties around the harbour. Alternatively, you can launch a boat here to head out the deeper waters.

Common catches in and around Hillarys Boat Harbour include herring, tailor, snapper, whiting, baldchin groper and dhufish. Fishing at Hillarys is great all-year round. There are also great facilities like free short-term parking, toilets, bait and tackle shops, restaurants and cafes.  

Hillarys is a great fishing spot all year round. The best time to fish here is at dawn and dusk when fish are most active, during incoming tide and at the turn of the tide. 

3. Canning River

The Canning River offers plenty of habitat variety like jetties, bridge pylons and banks which means there’s a diverse range of species to target including black bream, tailor, flathead, mulloway, whiting and herring. 

The best Canning River fishing spots include:

• Canning Bridge: fishing platform for easy access and good for both newbies and people with more experience
• Kent Street Weir: Popular spot for black bream
• Riverton Jetty Park
• Shelley Bridge
• Salter Point Lagoon
• Riverbanks along the Canning River: There are plenty of hidden gems along the Canning river – be on the lookout for jetties, overhanging trees or other structures in the water

Read this next: Complete Guide to Fishing in Lancelin: Spots, Species & When to Go

4. Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour

As a fully operational fishing harbour, you’ll always catch fresh seafood being brought into the docks of the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour. Here you’ll find deeper water, meaning you’ll be able to target a wider variety of species such as snapper, whiting and squid. There’s also variety in the areas you can fish – from wharves to breakwaters. 

It’s an easily accessible spot with great facilities like toilets, parking, bait shops, restaurants and cafes making it an easy choice for a day out fishing. The best time to go fishing at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour is during the early morning or late evening.

5. Rottnest Island

With plenty of beaches, hidden bays and over 400 fish species, Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) is a fishing paradise! You can choose to fish from the jetties at Stark Bay, Geordie Bay or Thomson Bay or fish from the sand at one of the many secluded beaches. If offshore fishing is more your thing, the waters offshore from West End are the most productive. 

Just keep in mind that Rottnest Island Is a Class A Marine Reserve, therefore there are restrictions in place. No fishing is allowed at Little Salmon Bay and fishing during daylight hours is not permitted at the Basin, Little Parakeet Bay and Pinky Beach. Make sure you’re aware of all the rules before you head out fishing. 

6. Rockingham Beach, Rockingham

Rockingham Beach is prime fishing territory – it’s located in Cockburn Sound, which is a breeding ground for pink snapper and its waters are protected by offshore islands and reefs. Here anglers can target pink snapper, samson fish, flathead, dhufish, tailor, herring, King George whiting, skippy, yellowfin whiting and Australian salmon during salmon season.

There’s plenty of shore-based fishing options, but for the best experience (and to target those beautiful pink snapper!) bead offshore by boat or kayak. If you are targeting pink snapper here, keep in mind that there are strict bag and size limits as well as closed seasons that apply to this location. Make sure you’re familiar with all the rules before you head out. 

7. Mangles Bay, Rockingham

Mangles Bay is another spot located in Cockburn Sound which is fantastic for both shore-based and boat fishing. Here you can target pink snapper, King George and yellowfin whiting, samson fish, flathead, dhufish, tailor, herring, and skippy.

8. Two Rocks

Just under an hour north of Perth you’ll find Two Rocks, a friendly town known for its chill community vibe and stunning coastline. There’s some great fishing around Two Rocks, common catches here include tailor, herring, skippy, King George whiting, mulloway and dhufish. 

The best fishing spots in Two Rocks include:

• Two Rocks Marina and boat ramp 
• Beaches north of Two Rocks Marina: productive for tailor
• Beaches south of Two Rocks: Stretch of beach and reefs, also productive for tailor

9. Yanchep Lagoon, Yanchep

Yanchep Lagoon is a scenic spot and a popular weekend destination for families wanting to relax on the beach or go snorkelling. This is a popular spot for swimming so remember, no fishing is allowed between the red and yellow flags and be cautious of people in the water.

Yanchep Lagoon is great for fishing as the lagoon provides relatively sheltered waters compared to open ocean fishing spots. It’s home to a variety of fish species including tailor, herring and whiting. Plus, it’s easily accessible from Perth and there are convenient facilities close by like toilets, showers and picnic spots. 

10. Woodman Point Ammo Jetty, Coogee

Woodman Point Jetty is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, diving and fishing. It’s one of the best fishing spots in Perth as it provides easy access to deeper water and common catches here include squid, herring, skippy, tailor and whiting. It’s also a popular spot for night fishing 

It’s easily accessible with plenty of room, making it a great spot to take the kids fishing while they learn the ropes.

11. Cottesloe Groyne, Cottesloe

Located right next to Cottesloe Beach, the Cottesloe Groyne is part of one of Perth’s most iconic beach locations. The groyne lats you venture deeper into the water to target larger fish species like tuna, kingfish, and snapper. Other common catches here include tailor, whiting, flathead, bream and mulloway.

The surrounding area has excellent amenities, including cafes, restaurants, public toilets and picnic spots, making it easy to spend a whole day by the water. Check out my Cottesloe Beach Guide for more great things to do at Cottesloe Beach. 

12. Ocean Reef Boat Harbour, Ocean Reef

Ocean Reef Boat Harbour, just 25 minutes north of the city, is a great Perth fishing spot with reports of anglers hooking large fish – particularly mulloway. The harbour’s waters are sheltered and its structures attract a variety of fish, including snapper, herring, tailor, skippy, squid and mulloway (especially at night). The best time to fish at Ocean Reef Boat Harbour is at night.

13. North Mole, Fremantle

North Mole is a well-known fishing spot in Fremantle. The area around the iconic lighthouse offers access to deeper waters, where larger fish can be found. Common catches here include: whiting, herring, tailor, snapper, sharks, mulloway and salmon during the annual salmon run. There is a large parking area, but other facilities are limited compared to South Mole. 

The best time to fish at North Mole is in the early morning or late evening. This spot is particularly popular for night fishing.

14. South Mole, Fremantle

South Mole is known for being home to a good variety of species such as squid, tailor, herring, tailor, pink snapper and gardies and has a strong fishing community. 

It’s currently only open to pedestrians due to issues with illegal camping and vandalism, but restoration of vehicle access is expected. The spot also has good facilities like public toilets and nearby restaurants and cafes. 

15. Trigg Beach

Trigg Beach is a well-known fishing spot in Perth, offering anglers the chance to catch salmon, tailor, and herring. To get to this spot, head north from Perth CBD along the coast until you reach Trigg Beach. The best time to go fishing at Trigg Beach is during the autumn months when the fish are migrating.

Perth Offshore Fishing

If you’re keen to head offshore, Perth offers plenty of great fishing spots, each home to a variety of species. Some of the best spots include:

• Perth Canyon
• Five Fathom Bank
• Reefs off Two Rocks
• Reefs of Ocean Reef Marina
• Reefs off Cockburn Sound

Perth Boat Launching

If you’re keen to head out for a day of offshore fishing here are some of the best spots to launch your boat:

• Coode Street Boat Ramp
• Maylands Public Boat Ramp
• Matilda Bay Boat Ramp
• South Perth Boat Ramp
• Hillarys Boat Harbour
• Ocean Reef Boat Harbour

Read this next: Fishing in Mandurah: The Complete Local Guide to Spots, Species & Seasons

Best Gear for Fishing in Perth

To make your Perth fishing trip successful, it’s important to match your gear to the species you’re targeting. Here’s my go-to setup:

Light Tackle – Perfect for Jetties and Calm Beaches (Herring, Whiting, Flathead):

• Rod: 7-9ft spinning rod, rated 2-4kg, ideal for small lures or bait
• Reel: Spinning reel sized 2500-3000 (such as Shimano Nasci 2500 or Daiwa Exceler 3000)
• Line: 6-10lb braid or mono, paired with a 10-15lb fluorocarbon leader

Medium Tackle – Ideal for Surf Beaches and Larger Species (Tailor, Mulloway, Big Flathead):

• Rod: 9–12ft medium-action surf rod, rated around 6-10kg for extra casting distance
• Reel: Spinning reel sized 4000-5000 (options include Penn Battle IV 4000 or Shimano Socorro 5000)
• Line: 20–30lb braided line with a sturdy 30-40lb fluorocarbon leader (great for handling sharp-toothed fish like tailor)

What Can You Catch When Fishing in Perth?

Wondering what you can catch in Perth? Here’s all the information on the most commonly caught varieties in the region, and tips on how to target them. Please note, bag and size and limits below are accurate at time of publication, but be sure to follow the Western Australian Recreational Fishing Rules. 

Tailor

Growing up to a whopping 1.2m, Tailor are a common target in Perth due to their aggressive feeding habits and strength. To catch tailor, use metal slices or poppers near schools of baitfish or around reefs and boulders. The best time to target tailor is in the afternoon or evening at high tide.
Size limit: 30 cm (only 2 over 50cm)
Bag limit: 8

Flathead

Flathead are one of my personal favourites – they’re delicious! To catch flathead, use soft plastics or bait such as prawns or whitebait on a paternoster rig near sandy flats or weed beds – they lay buried in the sand until they ambush their prey. The best time to target flathead in Perth is during the warmer months of spring and summer and dawn and dusk are the best items of day. 
Size limit: 30 cm
Bag limit: 8

Whiting

Whiting are a common catch around Perth and they’re fun to target due to their willingness to take bait. To catch whiting, use small hooks baited with worms, mussels, prawns or squid on a light rig near sandy shallows or weed beds. Whiting can be caught all year-round but are generally easier to catch in the summer months as they move closer to shore where the water is warmer and your best bet is to head out at dawn or dusk at the change of the tide. 
Size limit: No minimum size
Bag limit: 30 (excluding King George whiting)

King George Whiting

King George whiting put up a spirited fight and are pretty popular for their flavour and texture so they’re a popular catch in the region. Larger fish can be found in deeper water around reefs and smaller fish prefer shallower, protected areas. The best bait is squid, prawns, mussels and bloodworms and a paternoster or running sinker rig is the best setup. They’re most active around large tidal changes like around the new moon. 
Size limit: 28 cm
Bag limit: 12

Pink Snapper  

Pink snapper are a popular target in deeper waters as they put up a fun fight! To catch pink snapper, use fresh bait such as squid, mulies, slimy mackerel, octopus or pilchards or metal lures and leadhead jigs. Areas with rocky reefs, ledges and drop-offs can be productive for pink snapper. A paternoster rig is a common choice for deeper waters or a running sinker setup for shallower water. The best time to target pink snapper in Perth is during the cooler months of autumn and winter when they are more active and in the early morning or late afternoon.

While pink snapper are most commonly targeted offshore, they’re occasionally caught from shore around reefy structure and deeper ledges, especially during cooler months. Keep in mind there are extra restrictions and closed seasons for demersal scalefish (including pink snapper) in the region. Check the Western Australian Fishing Rules to stay up-to-date with restrictions. 
Size limit: 50 cm in the West Coast Bioregion
Bag limit: 2

Dhufish

Dhufish are prized for their large size and flavour. They’re typically found offshore in depths of 20-50 metres, but occasionally venture into shallower water. To catch dhufish, use fresh bait such as squid or octopus on a heavy rig near deep drop-offs or underwater structures. The best time to target dhufish is during tide changes.

Dhufish are rarely caught from shore, and most captures occur offshore. Boat-based fishing for dhufish is subject to additional restrictions, so always check current WA regulations before targeting them.

Just like pink snapper, there are closed sessions for dhufish in the region. Check the Western Australia Fishing Rules to stay up-to-date with restrictions. 
Size limit: No minimum size
Bag limit: 2

Mulloway

Mulloway, also known as jew fish, are fun to target – they put up a powerful fight! To catch mulloway, use bait such as mullet, mulies or strips of tailor on a running sinker rig near deep channels or river mouths. The best time to target mulloway is during dawn and dusk on a rising tide. 
Size limit: 50 cm
Bag limit: 2

Bream 

Bream are a common catch around Perth.To catch bream, use small hooks baited with prawns or worms on a light rig near jetties or rock walls. Small minnow lures, vibes and soft plastics can also be productive. The best time to target bream is in the early morning or evening, especially around tide changes.
Size limit: 25 cm or 30 cm for yellowfin bream
Bag limit: 6 (only 2 black bream over 40 cm from Swan and Canning Rivers)

Skippy

Skippy (aka silver trevally) are a popular target – they put up a strong fight and their schooling behaviour means when there’s one, there’s often more! To catch skippy, use small metal slices or bait such as pilchards or whitebait on a light rig near schools of baitfish or rocky outcrops. The best time to target skippy is around tide changes. 
Size limit: 25 cm
Bag limit: 8

Samson Fish

Samson fish are a popular catch as they’re big and put on a good fight. They can be found in shallow waters, but are more common in depths of 40-100 m. To catch Samson fish, use bait such as squid, pilchards or mackerel on a heavy rig near offshore reefs or underwater structures. 
Size limit: 60 cm
Bag limit: 3

Best Time to Go Fishing In and Around Perth

The best time to go fishing in Perth is during the early morning or late afternoon. The calm waters and cooler temperatures during these times make for perfect fishing conditions.

Additionally, the best time of year to go fishing in Perth is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and it’s pleasant to be out on the water. It’s also the perfect time to catch a variety of fish species in the waters around Perth.

Where to Buy Bait and Tackle in Perth

Need bait and tackle in a pinch? Check out these spots:

1. TackleWest

Address: Various locations in and around Perth, including 93 Hector St, Osborne Park WA 6017, 32 William St, Beckenham WA 6107, Unit 2/90-94 Norma Rd, Myaree WA 6154

2. Southside Boating and Fishing

Address: 354a South St, O’Connor WA 6163

3. Anglers Fishing World

Address: 24 Mews Rd, South Fremantle WA 6160

4. BCF 

Address: Various locations in and around Perth, including 199 Abernethy Rd, Belmont WA 6104, 1/9 Enterprise Way, Rockingham WA 6168, T65/75 Joondalup Dr, Edgewater WA 6027, etc.

Last Words on Fishing in Perth

There’s plenty to love about fishing in Perth! A huge range of fishing spots to suit every skill level like riverbanks, beaches and offshore reefs. There’s also great variety in the species you can target so you’re sure to have a great day out on the water!

More Weekend Inspiration

Looking for more great fishing spots in Western Australia? Check out my fishing guides:

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• The Complete Guide To Fishing In Cervantes
• The Complete Guide To Fishing In Augusta
• Complete Guide to Fishing in Busselton: Spots, Varieties + More
• Complete Guide to Fishing in Dunsborough: Spots, Tips, Varieties + More!
• Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Margaret River: Best Spots, Tips + More!