Top Woodman Point Fishing Spots: A Complete Guide for Fishing
Woodman Point is one of Perth’s most cherished coastal gems, known for its rich marine biodiversity, calm waters, and versatile fishing opportunities. It’s an angler’s heaven, offering jetty, shore, and offshore options that cater to beginners and seasoned fishers alike.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best Woodman Point fishing spots, target species, and essential tips to help you make the most of your trip. We’ll also share a practical gear checklist and outline all necessary regulations and permits. Let’s dive in!
Best Fishing Spots Around Woodman Point
Woodman Point, located in Coogee, Western Australia, is a renowned fishing destination offering diverse spots suitable for anglers of all levels. Here are five of the best Woodman Point fishing spots, each with unique features and facilities to enhance your fishing experience.
1. Ammo Jetty
Ammo Jetty is one of the most popular fishing spots in the Perth metro area, known for its accessibility and abundance of fish species. Anglers frequently catch herring, snapper, tailor, and it's particularly famed for salmon during their seasonal runs.
Location: End of Ammo Jetty Road, Woodman Point
Facilities: Ample parking, public toilets, shaded picnic areas, and nearby Woodman Point Café for refreshments.
2. Woodman Point Headland
The headland offers excellent rock fishing opportunities, providing access to deeper waters where species like bream, flathead, and whiting are commonly found. The natural structure attracts various fish, making it a productive Woodman Point fishing spot for experienced anglers.
Location: Western tip of Woodman Point Regional Park
Facilities: Walking trails, parking areas, and scenic viewpoints.
3. Woodman Point Boat Ramp Area
Ideal for those with boats, this area provides easy access to deeper offshore fishing spots. Anglers can target larger species such as snapper and dhufish. The surrounding waters are also suitable for crabbing and squid fishing.
Location: Near Jervoise Bay Sailing Club, off Woodman Point View
Facilities: Boat launching ramps, parking, and nearby bait and tackle shops.
4. John Graham Reserve Beach
This beach area is perfect for family-friendly shore fishing. The calm waters are suitable for catching species like whiting and flathead. It's also a great spot for introducing children to fishing in a safe environment.
Location: Within Woodman Point Regional Park, accessible via
Facilities: Playgrounds, BBQ areas, shaded seating, and restrooms.
5. Northern Rock Groynes
The rock groynes to the north of Woodman Point provide excellent structure for fish to congregate. Anglers often catch tailor, herring, and bream here, especially during early morning or late afternoon sessions.
Location: North of Woodman Point, accessible via walking trails from the main park area
Facilities: Limited facilities; it's advisable to bring necessary supplies.
Each of these spots around Woodman Point offers unique fishing experiences, catering to different preferences and skill levels. Whether you're seeking a family outing or a more challenging fishing adventure, Woodman Point has a location to suit your needs.
What Fish Can You Catch at Woodman Point?
Wondering what fish species you can reel in at Woodman Point? The answer is—plenty. Thanks to its rich marine habitat featuring sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds, Woodman Point offers access to a wide variety of species throughout the year for both land-based and offshore fishing.
Nearshore and Jetty Fishing
If you’re fishing from the Ammunition Jetty or the nearby shoreline, there’s no shortage of action. Common catches include:
Herring: Plentiful throughout the year, especially during early morning and evening bites.
Sand and School Whiting: Frequently caught over sandy bottoms, ideal for light tackle fishing.
Flathead: Appear regularly in the shallows during warmer months; soft plastic lures work best.
Squid: Found near weed beds and reef edges, especially productive at night under jetty lights.
Skippy (Silver Trevally) and Tailor: Often caught around the jetty during autumn and spring, offering great sport for land-based anglers.
Offshore Fishing Opportunities
For boat anglers, Woodman Point offers access to deeper waters with even more rewarding catches:
Pink Snapper: Found near reefs and drop-offs, particularly after storms or during spawning periods.
Dhufish: A prized species in Western Australia, usually located in deeper reef structures.
Samson Fish: Known for their strength and fight, best targeted with heavy tackle and live bait.
Fishing Tips for Woodman Point
Woodman Point offers a versatile fishing experience, but a few smart strategies can make your trip even more rewarding. Whether you're fishing off the Ammunition Jetty or heading offshore, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your day.
Tip 1: Time Your Outing Around the Tides
Fishing around the incoming tide often produces the best results, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. As the tide rises, baitfish move closer to shore, attracting larger predatory species. Combine this with low light conditions and you’ll greatly increase your chances of landing quality fish.
Tip 2: Fish Light, Fish Smart
Using light tackle when targeting nearshore species like herring or whiting can improve your success rate. Lighter lines and smaller hooks result in more natural bait presentation, which is especially important in clear, shallow waters. Avoid overcasting—many fish are closer than you think, especially near structures or drop-offs.
Tip 3: Maximize Boat Positioning with a Trolling Motor
Precise boat positioning can make or break your offshore fishing session. Using a trolling motor allows you to quietly maneuver around reefs, drop-offs, and bait schools without spooking fish. It also helps you hold position against wind or current, giving you more time with your lines in the water and improving your hookup rate.
Essential Gear Checklist for Woodman Point Anglers
To fish at Woodman Point effectively and safely, it’s crucial to have the right gear, especially if you’re heading offshore by boat. Here's what we recommend:
Rods, Reels, and Terminal Tackle
Light rods for jetty or beach fishing.
Medium-heavy setups for boat fishing or larger species.
Tackle box with assorted sinkers, swivels, hooks, and lures.
Squid jigs for targeting cephalopods.
Trolling Motor Battery
If you’re fishing from a boat, precise control and stealth are critical for getting close to fish-rich structures without scaring them off. That’s where a reliable trolling motor battery comes in.
A standout choice is the EcoFlow 12V 100Ah Lithium Trolling Motor Battery, specifically designed for 13.6–31.8 kg trolling motors.
With 1280Wh capacity, a peak discharge of 300A, and an IP65 waterproof rating, this portable marine battery ensures your boat operates quietly and efficiently all day.
EcoFlow 12V 100Ah Lithium Trolling Motor Battery
Solar Generator
PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) for everyone onboard.
Emergency beacon (EPIRB) for offshore trips.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect from UV exposure.
Cooler box or esky for keeping catches fresh.
Miscellaneous Items
Beyond the essentials, a few smart additions can make your fishing trip at Woodman Point more comfortable and efficient. A high-lumen waterproof headlamp for low-light conditions, dry bags for protecting electronics, extra batteries or power banks.
Woodman Point Regulations and Permits
Another essential aspect you can’t overlook when planning a fishing trip to Woodman Point is compliance with local regulations. Here are the key regulations every angler should be aware of before casting a line.
Bag, Size, and Possession Limits
Strict bag and size limits apply to many common species around Woodman Point, including demersal scalefish like pink snapper and dhufish, as well as herring, whiting, and squid. These rules govern how many fish you can catch per day and the minimum legal size for each species. Limits may vary depending on the season and are subject to change, so always check the latest guidelines.
In addition to daily catch limits, possession limits apply to how much fish you can legally have in your possession at any time. This includes not only what you have onboard while fishing, but also what you store in your vehicle, home, or elsewhere after the trip. Failing to adhere to these rules can lead to significant penalties.
Seasonal and Area Closures
Some areas and species are protected by seasonal closures to support breeding cycles and reduce overfishing pressure. For example, demersal scalefish such as dhufish and snapper are protected during key spawning months in the West Coast bioregion, which includes Woodman Point.
Some areas and species are protected by seasonal closures to support breeding cycles and reduce overfishing pressure. For example, demersal scalefish such as dhufish and snapper are protected during key spawning months in the West Coast bioregion, which includes Woodman Point.
For 2025, the demersal closure periods are:
1 February to 31 March (inclusive)
1 August to 15 September (inclusive)
15 October to 15 December (inclusive)
Fishing for demersal species during these windows is strictly prohibited and monitored by fisheries officers.
Licenses
Recreational shore fishing at Woodman Point doesn’t require a licence. However, if you plan to fish from a powered vessel, you’ll need a Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence (RFBL). This licence is valid for 12 months and covers general boat-based fishing, including crabbing and spearfishing. As of 2025, the cost for an RFBL is $40.00 per year.
Additionally, certain species and fishing methods require specialised licences:
Rock Lobster Licence – $50.00
Abalone Licence – $50.00
Marron Licence – $50.00
South-west Freshwater Angling Licence – $50.00
Net Fishing Licence (set, haul, or throw nets) – $50.00
These permits are not interchangeable across states and can be conveniently applied for or renewed online.
Conclusion
Woodman Point fishing spots are among the most accessible and rewarding in Western Australia. Whether you're casting from a jetty, relaxing on the shore, or exploring offshore reefs by boat, the area offers something for every angler.
By learning about the best locations, knowing what fish to target, understanding regulations, and having essential gear from fishing tools to a reliable boat dual battery setup, you can make every trip more productive and enjoyable.
FAQs
Where Is the Best Place to Fish in WA?
Western Australia has countless amazing fishing spots, but Woodman Point stands out for its accessibility, species variety, and year-round fishing appeal. It offers a mix of jetty, shore, and boat fishing, making it ideal for both casual and experienced anglers.
When Is the Best Time to Fish at Woodman Point?
The best times to fish at Woodman Point are during the early morning and late afternoon, especially around a rising tide. These periods bring fish closer to shore. Seasonal patterns also matter—autumn and spring are particularly productive.
Is Fishing Good in WA?
Fishing in Western Australia is exceptional thanks to its vast coastline, pristine waters, and diverse fish species. Whether targeting snapper offshore or herring from a jetty, WA offers some of the most consistent and rewarding fishing experiences in the country.