Question 1

Can I bring my fishing gear on the Rottnest ferry?

Accepted Answer

Yes — most operators allow rod tubes and tackle bags. Check size and weight limits with your specific operator. Bait can usually be brought; some operators have restrictions, so verify before you board.

Question 2

Where are the best Rottnest fishing spots?

Accepted Answer

Thomson Bay (jetties, family-friendly, herring), Geordie Bay (reef edges, mixed species), Ricey Beach and Cathedral Rocks (tailor and squid on the ledges), Little Armstrong Bay (KGW with berley in shallow water), south-side beaches (autumn salmon migration). Avoid the marine park sanctuary zones.

Question 3

What can't I fish at Rottnest?

Accepted Answer

Five marine sanctuary zones — Kingston (Thomson Bay shipwrecks), Parker Point, Green Island, Armstrong Bay and West End Demersal — are no-take. The Basin, Little Parakeet Bay and Pinky Beach are evening fishing only. No spear fishing, no nets, no taking of marine life from inter-tidal zones outside permitted areas.

Question 4

Do I need a fishing licence for Rottnest?

Accepted Answer

No fishing licence required for shore-based recreational fishing. Bag and size limits set by DPIRD apply. Boat-based recreational demersal fishing in the West Coast Bioregion is in extended recovery closure to September 2027 — verify current land-based rules and species closures with DPIRD before targeting pink snapper or dhufish. Check Rottnest Island Authority for any island-specific rules.

Rottnest Island (Shore Fishing)