Demersal scalefish in Western Australia (WA) are generally long-lived, slow growing species that are typically found close to the seabed. They are highly valued by the WA community for providing high quality seafood and fantastic recreational fishing and marine tourism experiences.
There are 5 demersal scalefish resources in WA’s coastal waters – the Kimberley, Pilbara, Gascoyne, West Coast, and South Coast. These resources are collectively comprised of more than 100 tropical and temperate fish species in inshore (20-250 m deep) and offshore (>250 m) waters.
Demersal science
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) monitors the status of WA’s demersal scalefish resources by undertaking regular stock assessments of key indicator species.
The latest stock assessments for the Kimberley, Pilbara, West Coast, and South Coast demersal scalefish resources show fishing pressure across the State is well above acceptable limits. In the Gascoyne, the fishery is recovering because both industry and the department worked cohesively together to implement strong management changes.
Visit the DPIRD website and read the latest assessments.
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