With large swells and strong south easterly winds forecast, the Department of Fisheries is asking recreational fishers to be mindful of difficult and potentially dangerous conditions.

The main fishing activity will occur at popular reefs along the Perth coast, but the West Coast abalone zone extends from the Busselton Jetty to the Greenough River Mouth.

Principal Management Officer Nathan Harrison said the season would run for just one hour each Sunday (7am – 8am) for six Sundays, between November 1 and December 6.

“Our research indicates that abalone stocks are sustainable, but this is a popular fishery on the doorstep of a major city and we must limit access to it to ensure abalone stocks are not overfished,” Mr Harrison said.

“Last season’s catch was around 44 tonnes, the highest for eight years. Fortunately, the fishery had a strong recruitment last year and is in a healthy state. However, it does have to be closely managed, so annual surveys are done to monitor its sustainability.

In addition to the seasonal limitations, a daily bag/possession limit of 20 Roe's abalone applies per person.

The minimum legal length for Roe's abalone is 60mm.

Roe’s abalone is the main species fished along Perth’s coast, but there are also rules that apply to greenlip and brownlip abalone.

These rules and other information are included in a special abalone guide that can be downloaded from the Department’s website.”

Mr Harrison said that Fisheries and Marine Officers would again be patrolling fishing locations in the West Coast abalone zone throughout the season.

“Fishers who ignore the rules, which are designed to keep the fishery sustainable, should be aware that breaking fishing laws can be an expensive mistake for offenders,” Mr Harrison said.

“Just last week an abalone fisher was fined more than $4,100 after being caught in possession of 60 abalone on the first day of last season.

“Recreational fishers also need to keep an eye on the weather, throughout the season, especially the swell forecasts. People should ensure their personal safety is top of mind.”

Recreational fishers must have a valid licence to fish for abalone. Licenses can be purchased online at www.fish.wa.gov.au.