Catch!

Abalone special edition

Abalone fishing to go ahead this weekend

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development advises of a risk rating of MEDIUM for the recreational abalone session from 7am to 8am this Saturday, 4 February, 2023.

Please PROCEED WITH CAUTION. 

More information on the predicted conditions is available from our website.

Please note - Penguin Island will be closed due to the forecast temperature for the day being over 35 degreed Celsius. Boat fishers can still fish for abalone offshore from Penguin Island, provided vessel occupants don’t go onto the island when the closures are in place.

The Department asks fishers to please keep in mind the following safety tips when fishing for abalone:

• Check the conditions. If they are too rough or you are unsure, don't enter the water.
• Fish at a patrolled beach if possible.
• Take note of the number of any BEN signs in the area.
• Wear a wetsuit or light clothing that will not become too heavy when wet, and protective footwear.
• Carry your catch in a loose-weave net bag; this will allow water to pass through and not become a dragging weight.
• Attach your measuring gauge to your wrist; don't hang it around your neck.
• Study the waves before you get into the water and keep an eye on the swell while fishing – it is easy to be injured on reefs.
• If you do get into trouble, try to stay calm and raise one arm (an international distress signal) to attract help.

Further information

Abalone recreational fishing guide

Abalone fishing rules

Surf Life Saving WA abalone fishing safety tips

Important disclaimer 
The Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the State of Western Australia accept no liability whatsoever by reason of negligence or otherwise arising from the use or release of this information or any part of it.

Copyright © State of Western Australia (Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development), 2023.