WA anglers are being warned to pack away the rods for one of the State’s most popular breeding grounds, with the annual pink snapper spawning closure coming into force on Saturday.
From August 1, land-based recreational fishing for pink snapper will be banned in Cockburn and Warnbro Sounds as the prized species gathers to spawn.
The annual closure will remain in place until January 31, 2027, protecting pink snapper during the months they are most vulnerable as they breed in large numbers.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development said the seasonal ban was a key part of efforts to rebuild pink snapper stocks and urged fishers to respect the rules.
The reminder comes as the entire West Coast region from Kalbarri to Augusta remains closed to boat-based demersal fishing under separate stock recovery measures.
DPIRD principal fisheries management officer Shane Walters said that seasonal closures played a crucial role in protecting fish populations during spawning.
“It is important that fishers abide by the spawning closure to help rebuild pink snapper stocks to a sustainable level,” he said.
“Fisheries and marine officers will continue to be out and about talking to fishers to make sure they were aware of the spawning closures as well as the broader West Coast region closure.”
Mr Walters encouraged anglers to target alternative species such as tuna, samsonfish, whiting and squid during the closure period.
Fishers with a current Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence can also claim up to $50 back on eligible fishing gear through the State’s Tackle Shop Rebate Program at participating independent tackle stores.
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