Local Guide
Fishing Esperance with a Local
We're spoilt for choice in Esperance. Beach, jetty, boat, rock or a sheltered creek, there's a style of fishing for everyone, and that variety is what makes Esperance such a great place to cast a line.
Ollie Stevenson is a bit of a local legend when it comes to fishing in Esperance. He works in a local sport and tackle shop Southern Sports & Tackle, and he's been sharing tips with anglers for years. So we asked him what makes fishing here so special.
Ollie's take on fishing in Esperance
What makes Esperance such a special place to cast a line?
For me, it's the isolation and the different opportunities. Whatever the weather, there's always a fishable spot, and most of the time you'll have it pretty much to yourself. The spots are easy to get to, with places for every level of experience. Then, to top it off, there's an abundance of fish, and the scenery is beautiful. It really is the premier fishing spot in all of WA.
What's biting through the seasons?
The good thing about Esperance is that water temperature and currents don't affect the fishing too much, so you can fish here all year round. There's plenty of bread-and-butter fishing at any time, with herring, skippy and whiting pretty much everywhere. Then there's the chance of mulloway, bronze whalers and gummy shark, and salmon at places like Salmon Beach and Eleven Mile Beach.
Which spot is the most family friendly?
Bandy Creek Boat Harbour is sheltered, with a gentle beach, so it's perfect for families with young children. For families with older kids, the Esperance Jetty is great.
Any advice on rock fishing?
If you're going rock fishing, you need to be well prepared. Check the weather conditions, choose a good location with a rock bolt you can secure yourself to, wear a life jacket and tell a friend where you're going.
What's your ideal fishing adventure?
If you've got time and a 4WD, you can't go past three nights out at Israelite Bay with a few mates. If you don't have a 4WD or the time, it's hard to beat an overnight camp at Quagi Beach.
What gear should a beginner start with?
To get yourself started, you can't go past an 8-foot general-purpose combo with a pre-tied rig. Everyone needs a squid jig too, and a handline is fine, especially off the jetty.
Why go fishing?
It's very easy to get into, and it gives you a big reward for your effort. It's good for your mental health, it gets you out into nature, and you can catch your own food.
Help care for this place and its people. Learn how to travel responsibly and return home safely. Make the Esperance Promise before you go.
Plan your fishing trip
Ready to cast a line? Our Fishing in Esperance page has everything you need: local spots and what you might catch, the best baits, boat ramps, charters, rock fishing safety, and the Esperance Jetty fishing rules.
Wherever you fish, take only what you need, stick to the bag and size limits, and take your rubbish, line and bait bags home with you. Read The Esperance Promise before you head out.
Also see: Recfishwest website(opens in new tab)
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