Australian Salmon
Shore / SurfHard-fighting pelagic that schools along beaches and rock walls during the autumn migration. Cast metals or pilchards into the wash for best results. Strong-flavoured but good smoked.
Australian salmon are the bruisers of Perth's shore fishing scene. They migrate northward along the coast from March through June in huge schools, smashing baitfish in the surf zone. While not prized for eating fresh, they're one of the hardest-fighting fish you'll hook from the shore and make excellent smoked fish.
Whole pilchards (on ganged hooks), mulies, garfish
Chrome slugs, Halco Twisty, metal slices, large spoons
Ganged hook rig (three 4/0 hooks) for whole pilchards, or a heavy spinning setup for casting metals. Use 15–20lb leader — salmon fight hard and will test light gear.
Cast metals or ganged pilchards into the wash along surf beaches and rock walls. Salmon often feed in the same areas as tailor, so target the white water at dawn and dusk. A fast, erratic retrieve on metals works best. When schools are running, you'll see birds working bait — cast into the action.
Dawn and dusk during the autumn run (March–June). Best on moderate swell with an incoming tide pushing bait against the shore. Overcast days often produce all-day bites.
Up to 9kg, commonly 2–5kg
Mar–Jun
Strong-flavoured flesh that most people find too oily eaten fresh. Excellent smoked, or used as bait for bigger species. Bleed immediately if keeping.
Bag limit: 4. Minimum size: 30cm. Always check current DPIRD rules — regulations may change.
Point Peron, Penguin Island beach, and the Dawesville Cut south wall are top salmon spots. Light gear works but it's a challenge — use the waves to bring the fish in, or have a net handy if you're on a jetty or rocks. You may pick up tailor as a by-catch while targeting salmon.