Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth and Coral Bay - Western Australia's Coral Coast

Fishing Information- Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth and Coral Bay

With the continental shelf only kilometres offshore, fishing and the Ningaloo Reef go hand in hand. There are many opportunities for beach, reef and game fishing in the diverse environment of Ningaloo. Sanctuary zones are special conservation zones where fishing is strictly prohibited but there are many other areas in the Marine Park where the fishing is superb.

Land based fishing is a popular recreational pastime as there are many different species to be caught. Beach fishing often produces surprising reef species while fishing in Exmouth Gulf turns up a variety of estuarine species. Mud crabbing and squid fishing are also popular activities. Enquire locally about what’s on the bite!

Professional charter boats depart Exmouth daily. They offer a range of tours including half and full day fishing trips, as well as being available for private charter. Some of the sought after species are North West Snapper, Blue Bone, Coral Trout and Red Emperor. Ningaloo is also recognized as the premier game fishing destination in Western Australia - it is one of the few places in the world where such famous species as Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Spanish Mackerel and Sailfish are hooked regularly. Every year in March Exmouth hosts the Gamex Tournament which always produces some fantastic - often record breaking - catches (a ”Tag and Release” policy is adhered to).

BOAT LAUNCHING FACILITIES

Exmouth has 3 boat launching areas. The Exmouth Boat Harbour is located 2km south of the Exmouth town site and offers concreted boat ramps within the sheltered wall of the marina. Other boat ramps are located 12km north of town at Bundegi Beach, and 35km from town (just north of the Cape Range National Park. boundary) at Tantabiddi. Other small boat launching areas are available from campsites in the park though these are generally only accessible to 4WD vehicles.

SANCTUARY ZONES

There are eight sanctuary zones in the Marine Park. Special conservation regulations, bag and size limits apply in the Marine Park. Please contact the local Fisheries department or the Exmouth Visitor Centre for further information.

(Source - Exmouth Visitor Centre)

Conservation of the Ningaloo Reef Marine Park is vital so that the future generations can share the wonders of the area and we at the same time preserve the species of various sea creatures and marine life. Most fishing enthusiasts only catch what is needed or release a substantial amount of fish that they catch.

A quote from a Exmouth based tourism operator that seems applicable is... "as we are extremely passionate about protecting the area and encouraging people to come and observe the marine life - not kill it."

The web master of www.ningalooree.net promotes responsible fishing as do all the tourism and fishing operators around Exmouth and Coral Bay.