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.
Statewide reforms and fisheries support package
After seeking input from all fishing sectors and the community, including a ‘Have Your Say’ survey and the Fishing Futures Forum, the WA Government has announced significant and targeted management actions along the WA coast to rebuild demersal fish stocks. This includes new demersal recreational fishing rules, which will be in place from 1 June 2026.
To support all sectors, the WA Government is investing more than $29.2 million to assist the commercial and recreational sectors to adapt to the statewide management changes needed to help rebuild severely depleted demersal fish stocks. This includes a Tackle Shop Rebate, which offers fishers who hold a current Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence (RFBL) a rebate of up to $50 for the purchase of fishing gear through participating WA independent tackle stores to help diversify their fishing and support statewide recovery efforts for demersal species. The rebate can be claimed via the ServiceWA App.
More information
Visit the DPIRD website and read the latest assessments, management and support package for all sectors.
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