Potato cod to be fully protected species from July 1

The potato cod fish is to be a fully protected species in Western Australia from July 1.

Fisheries Minister Gordon Hill said the fish was often caught inadvertently by recreational fishers.

"The potato cod is already protected in the Ningaloo Marine Park and it has now been decided to extend this in the interests of preserving stocks of this rare fish," Mr Hill said.

"Concern has been expressed that the protection already provided in the Ningaloo Marine Park will put pressure on potato cod in other areas."

Mr Hill said the Western Australian Recreational Sports Fishing Council and the Western Australian Fishing Industry Council had been consulted about the move.

The Minister said the measure was recommended at a meeting of the recreational fishing advisory committee.  It would be reviewed after five years.