Blue swimmer crab changes and what they mean for you

The new management changes for blue swimmer crabs in Perth and the South West will result in more protection for the female crab breeding stock will ensure bigger, better crabs in the near future.

  • Permanent removal of commercial fishing licences in Cockburn and Warnbro Sounds and from Mandurah to Bunbury through a voluntary buy-back scheme will ensure more protection for the female crab breeding stock and more crabs and bigger crabs to fish for.
  • The buy-back of commercial fishing licences in Cockburn Sound opens the real possibility for recreational crab fishing in the Sound.
  • Introduction of a three-month seasonal closure – September 1 to November 30 – in all waters from the Swan and Canning Rivers (inclusive) to 15km south of Bunbury.

See our map below to show you what the changes mean for you in your favourite crabbing locations.

Continue Reading

October 28, 2026

New science shines a light on Cockburn Sound’s unique environment

Scientists deploying bongo nets to sample for fish eggs in the Sound. Supplied by the Western Australian Marine Science Institution (WAMSI) as part of the WAMSI Westport Marine Science Program. Results from one of the…

Read More

October 26, 2026

Baby mussel growth signals next chapter for better fishing in Cockburn Sound

The Byssal mussel initiative of which Recfishwest is a founding partner is gearing up to produce the next generation of mussels in Cockburn sound with fresh spat (baby mussels) establishing itself on the farm’s…

Read More

October 26, 2026

King of the Reef delivers another year of fantastic fishing and surprising species

Four months of fantastic fishing, friendly competition and valuable citizen science have wrapped up in Exmouth, with the third annual King of the Reef competition once again showcasing the impressive variety of fish…

Read More

October 24, 2026

Snapper spawning in Cockburn Sound delivers eggs for next generation

One of Western Australia’s great natural events has been taking place beneath the surface of Cockburn Sound, as thousands of pink snapper have been gathering to spawn. Several reports of large schools of snapper…

Read More

October 21, 2026

Recfishwest AGM reflects on a pivotal year for fishing in Western Australia

Recfishwest’s 2026 Annual General Meeting at Fremantle Sailing Club gave members the opportunity to hear Board Chair Liam Surridge and CEO Dr Andrew Rowland reflect on a pivotal year for fishing in Western Australia…

Read More

October 16, 2026

Recfishwest on the road! A big weekend celebrating fishing across WA

From the Pilbara to the South-West, Recfishwest was out and about over the school holidays, getting amongst three fantastic community fishing events. Our team clocked up hundreds of kilometres and helped make plenty…

Read More