Where the Forest Meets the Sea.
A field guide to the fish of Walpole — from the tannin-stained rivers and shallow inlets to the surf gutters and offshore reefs of the Southern Ocean. With a few south-west endemics found nowhere else on Earth.
A mosaic of waters.
The Walpole-Nornalup Inlet system is one of the most diverse aquatic environments on the south coast — a shallow estuary, fed by two tannin-stained rivers, that opens narrowly to the Southern Ocean. The mixing of fresh, brackish and marine water sustains a remarkable range of fish.
The region is also home to several south-west endemic freshwater fish, including the salamanderfish — a tiny "living fossil" found nowhere else but a small radius around Walpole. Below, the fish you're likely to encounter, grouped by where they live.
Five habitats, one wilderness
Each waterbody around Walpole supports its own community of fish. Click any habitat below to jump to its species.
The Inlets
Shallow Walpole and deeper Nornalup — the heart of light-tackle fishing here.
Frankland & Deep Rivers
Tannin-stained snags hold black bream; mulloway prowl the lower reaches.
Surf Beaches
Mandalay, Conspicuous and Shelly — gutters for salmon, mulloway and tailor.
Offshore Reefs
Deep-water reef fishing for dhufish, queen snapper, samson and blue groper.
Native Freshwater
The small, ancient endemics of forest creeks — a Gondwanan story in miniature.
Fish responsibly.
State-wide recreational fishing rules apply across all waters here — including bag and size limits, seasonal closures, gear restrictions and licence requirements. Practise catch-and-release where you can, and check the Department of Fisheries website before you head out.
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