THERE were amazing scenes this year, especially for shore fishers, as schools of Australian salmon moved along the metro coast and even pushed well up the Swan River according to a report from RecFishWest.
The annual salmon spawning run can often be hit and miss for Perth, but this year there were unprecedented numbers of fish in metro waters.
Fishos trying their luck from jetties in the Swan got a shock when schools of salmon moved in and schools were even spotted up as far up as Point Walter and even the Causeway!
On Anzac Day, there were scenes not seen in Perth for many years as fishers lined the entire length of both Moles and any other land-based spots in Fremantle to capitalise on the frenzy.
The same day a school of fish almost brought traffic to a halt near the Left Bank, as it pushed bait against the retaining wall, almost within arm’s length of amazed spectators.
Offshore fishers had no problems finding fish from Mindarie to Rockingham and there were even salmon caught as far north as Exmouth, which is unheard of.
This bumper year was reflected by Department of Fisheries research, which showed recreational fishing pressure is currently having a minimal impact on the stock.
This year’s Salmon season highlights the huge value the WA community place on this great sport’s fish. People travel hundreds of kilometres and spend plenty of money to chase salmon but the experience and excitement people gain from having access to quality land based sports fishing is important and something as the peak body, we value highly and would love to see continue next year and for many years to come!
