Fishing in Kalbarri is a dream for anglers, offering everything from calm river mouth whiting to deep-sea tuna runs off the coast. While exploring the area, don’t miss the best fishing spots in Kalbarri for an unforgettable experience.
Dreaming of reeling in a big Mulloway at sunrise? Whether you’re casting a line from the Murchison River mouth, dropping bait from a coastal cliff, or chasing tuna offshore, Kalbarri is one of Western Australia’s fishing hotspots. This guide takes you through the best fishing spots, what’s biting each season, and how to book the perfect Kalbarri fishing charter for your trip.
Best Time for Fishing in Kalbarri
Kalbarri delivers great fishing year-round, but different seasons bring different rewards:
- Spring & Summer: Spanish mackerel, tailor, and yellowfin tuna offshore.
- Autumn: Mulloway and whiting in the river mouth.
- Winter: Pink snapper and dhufish offshore, garfish and herring closer in.
(Tip: Early mornings and late afternoons are prime bite times for most species.)
4 Top Fishing Spots in Kalbarri
1. Murchison River Mouth (Kalbarri river fishing)
Perfect for families and land-based anglers. Expect whiting, bream, and flathead near the jetties, with Mulloway often hooked at night.
2. Chinamans Beach (Kalbarri beach fishing)
Easy access and calm waters. Great for tailor, whiting, and herring.
3. Pot Alley & Red Bluff (Kalbarri rock fishing)
Spectacular cliffside fishing for tailor, snapper, and mulloway. Bring sturdy gear and fish with care — these rocks can be slippery.
4. Offshore Adventures (Kalbarri fishing charters)
For serious sportfishing, head offshore for Spanish mackerel, dhufish, and tuna. Book a Kalbarri fishing charter here to secure your spot with local skippers who know the waters. good chance of seeing dolphins or even a whale or two in season.
Fishing Licences & Local Regulations
If you’re fishing for demersal species like dhufish or pink snapper, you’ll need the right recreational fishing licence. Check WA Fisheries for seasonal closures and catch limits before you head out.
Fishing License? You’ll need one for boat fishing or targeting specific species—grab it online from WA Fisheries.
Tackle & Bait in Kalbarri
You can grab fresh bait, lures, and tackle from local stores such as Kalbarri Sports & Dive. Light spinning rods are great for river and beach fishing, while heavy overhead gear is best for offshore trips.
Recommended Gear for Fishing in Kalbarri
If you’re heading out for a fishing trip in Kalbarri, having the right gear can make the difference between a quiet day on the water and a brag-worthy catch. Here are a few essentials I recommend:
- Light Spinning Rod & Reel Combo – Perfect for chasing whiting, herring, and bream in the Murchison River or off the beach. Check current prices on Amazon AU
- Heavy-Action Rod for Offshore – Ideal if you’re targeting snapper, mackerel, or tuna on a charter. Look for something with a strong backbone and quality reel. Find one on Amazon AU.
- Tackle Box with Local Favourites – Stock up on mulies, squid jigs, poppers for tailor, and a couple of metal slugs for pelagics. See Amazon AU tackle kits.
- Polarised Sunglasses – Not only do they protect your eyes from the WA sun, but they also help spot fish in the shallows. Shop Amazon AU.
- Non-Slip Fishing Shoes – A must if you’re rock fishing around Pot Alley or Red Bluff. See Amazon AU options.
(Pro tip: Local bait shops in Kalbarri often have fresh bait that works better than frozen — worth grabbing before you head out.)
Kalbarri Fishing Tours & Charters
- Reefwalker Ocean Discovery – Deep sea fishing for snapper, tuna, and more.
- Offshore Adventures – Specialising in sportfishing and game fishing.
(Pro tip: Book in advance during school holidays — charters sell out fast.)
Where to Stay for a Fishing Trip in Kalbarri
After a long day on the water, kick back somewhere comfortable:
- Waterfront apartments near the river for quick morning starts.
- Holiday homes with boat parking for easy trailer storage.
- Family-friendly resorts with pools for downtime between fishing sessions.
Check Kalbarri accommodation options here to match your style and budget.
Final Cast – Why Kalbarri is a Fishing Paradise
From the sheltered waters of the Murchison River to the wild offshore runs for tuna, Kalbarri is a fisherman’s dream. Pack your rod, book a charter, and be ready to tell your “one that got away” story — or better yet, the one that didn’t!
Extra Tips for Fishing in Kalbarri
Before you cast your first line, here are a few simple tips to help you get the best out of your trip:
- Check the tides and weather – The river mouth and rock platforms can fish very differently depending on tidal flow and swell.
- Bring the right gear – Light spinning rods are perfect for beach and river fishing, but offshore you’ll want heavier tackle for snapper, mackerel, and tuna.
- Use fresh bait where possible – Local prawns, mulies, and squid tend to get more bites than frozen alternatives.
- Respect seasonal closures – Demersal fishing is closed at certain times of the year in WA, so check with WA Fisheries before heading out.
- Stay safe – If rock fishing, wear non-slip shoes and keep an eye on the swell. Some cliff spots can be unpredictable.
Kalbarri’s fishing isn’t just about the catch — it’s about the whole experience: the sunrise over the cliffs, the sound of waves hitting the rocks, and that unbeatable feeling when your rod bends under the weight of a big one.
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