Question 1

Do you need a licence to fish Harvey Dam?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a South West Freshwater Angling Licence from DPIRD is required to fish for trout and redfin in freshwater south of 29°S, and marron need a separate Recreational Marron Licence on top. Fishing from the bank or a kayak without the freshwater licence is an offence even if you release everything.

Question 2

What are the marron rules at Harvey Dam?

Accepted Answer

Harvey Dam is designated trophy waters, so the rules are tighter than standard: 90mm minimum carapace length, a daily bag of five per licensed fisher, and snares are the only legal capture method — no drop nets or scoops. The season is short, running from noon on 8 January to noon on 5 February, and a separate marron licence is required. Check DPIRD's current marron guide before the season.

Question 3

Can you use a boat on Harvey Dam?

Accepted Answer

Paddle craft only — kayaks and canoes launch from the ramp and several spots along the southern side, but power boats are prohibited on the dam. That suits the fishing: a kayak is the best way to work the submerged tree lines at the eastern end where the cruising trout hold.

Question 4

Can you camp at Harvey Dam?

Accepted Answer

No — the recreation area is day-use only, though it's well set up with toilets, barbecues, picnic shelters, a playground and walking trails. The nearest camping options are in and around Harvey and the wider South West dam circuit, including Potters Gorge at Wellington Dam near Collie.

Question 5

What lures work for trout at Harvey Dam?

Accepted Answer

Small minnow-style hard bodies, soft plastics and small vibes on a light 1.8–2.1m spin outfit with 3kg line cover the lure side; fly fishers do the damage with Woolly Buggers and Mrs Simpson streamers around the margins. Dawn, dusk and the warm-afternoon rises of October and November are the windows to plan around, and the eastern timber is where to look for cruising fish.

Question 6

Do you have to keep redfin at Harvey Dam?

Accepted Answer

Redfin perch are a declared pest in WA and must not be returned to the water alive — DPIRD asks that they're humanely dispatched and not left on the bank. There's no bag limit on them. The consolation is that redfin are excellent eating, so a bag of Harvey Dam reddies is a feed, not a chore.