Fishing Information
Fishing at Busselton Jetty
The Busselton Jetty is one of the South West’s most popular recreational fishing destinations, enjoyed by locals and visitors throughout the year. It offers a unique opportunity to fish from one of Australia’s most iconic jetties while sharing the space with walkers, train passengers, snorkellers, scuba divers, staff and other visitors.
Please note: Busselton Jetty Inc. is not the governing authority for recreational fishing. The information below is intended to answer common questions and direct visitors to the appropriate authority for current rules and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can I catch at Busselton Jetty?
The Jetty provides habitat for a wide variety of recreational fishing species throughout the year. Commonly caught species include:
Australian Herring
King George Whiting
Yellowfin Whiting
Silver Trevally
Leatherjackets
Western King Wrasse
Pink Snapper (seasonal)
Samson Fish
Yellowtail Kingfish
- Squid
- Cuttlefish
- Octopus
Species present vary with the seasons and environmental conditions.
For current fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, visit the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Recreational Fishing Guides or search the DPIRD Recreational Fishing Rules website for the latest rules specific to your fishing location and species.
Where can I find current size and bag limits?
Fishing regulations, including minimum sizes, bag limits, seasonal closures and licensing requirements, are managed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
For the latest information visit DPIRD Recreational Fishing Rules website
As these regulations can change, Busselton Jetty does not publish size or bag limits on this website.
How many fishing lines or drop nets can I use?
Under the City of Busselton Jetties Local Law 2014, fishers using the Busselton Jetty may use a maximum of:
- Two fishing lines
- Two hand lines
- Four drop nets
Fishing lines and drop nets must also be attended while in use.
For more information, refer to the City of Busselton Jetties Local Law.
Can I fish anywhere on the Jetty? / Where is the Sanctuary Zone?
Fishing is not permitted beyond the security gates near the Underwater Observatory, as this area forms part of the Busselton Jetty Sanctuary Zone.
The Busselton Jetty Sanctuary Zone begins at the large steel gates located approximately 1.6 kilometres along the Jetty and extends beyond the end of the structure, as shown on the official zoning map. Within the water, the Sanctuary Zone is marked by yellow surface markers.
Please obey all signage and directions from Jetty staff. For further information, refer to the City of Busselton Jetties Local Law and the official sanctuary zone maps.
Can I use wire trace?
No.
The use of wire trace is prohibited in waters surrounding Busselton Jetty under DPIRD recreational fishing regulations.
Please refer to the DPIRD Wire Trace Prohibition information for details and maps of the exclusion area.
Can I spearfish from the Jetty?
No.
The use of spear guns, hand spears, gidgies and similar devices is prohibited under the City of Busselton Jetties Local Law.
DPIRD also prohibits spearfishing within the designated exclusion zone surrounding Busselton Jetty.
Where can I clean my fish?
Fish cleaning is only permitted in designated fish cleaning areas provided by the City of Busselton.
Please dispose of fish waste responsibly using designated receptacles.
What is the Universal Access Platform (UAP)?
The Universal Access Platform (UAP) is a shared-use facility designed to improve safe and inclusive access to the water.
Located approximately 1.5 kilometres along the Jetty on the western side near the Underwater Observatory gates, the platform provides one of only two low-level water access points along the structure.
The UAP includes:
- A graded access ramp
- Low-level water access ladders
- Safe entry and exit points for visitors
The platform is regularly used by fishers, snorkellers and scuba divers. All patrons are encouraged to be considerate of others and share the space safely and respectfully.
Helpful Resources
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD)
- City of Busselton
Thank you for helping keep Busselton Jetty a safe, enjoyable and sustainable destination for everyone.
Boating Information
Boating Around Busselton Jetty
Busselton Jetty is a busy shared-use area, with boats, swimmers, snorkellers and divers all enjoying the surrounding waters. A few simple rules help keep everyone safe.
Please note: Busselton Jetty Inc. is not the governing authority for recreational boating. This page provides a quick guide only — use the provided links for the current rules and maps.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How fast can I travel near the Jetty?
Keep it to 8 knots or less within 50 metres of Busselton Jetty. The same 8-knot limit also applies within 50 metres of a person in the water or a moored vessel. For the full local boating map, see the Transport WA Busselton–Dunsborough Boating Guide.
Can I beach, anchor, moor or tie my boat to the Jetty?
Not unless authorised by the City of Busselton. This includes the Jetty and the Lot 350 foreshore area at the landward end. Under the Local Law, “mooring” includes anchoring, so this area should not be used as an informal boat landing or anchoring spot.
Can I launch from the Jetty?
No. Boats, kayaks, jet skis and other vessels cannot be launched from, over or under the Jetty unless a specific Local Law exemption or City approval applies.
Are there areas boats cannot enter?
Yes. Transport WA marks a “Closed Waters – All Vessels” area at the landward end of Busselton Jetty. Keep clear of the marked area and check the current boating guide and Notices to Mariners before heading out.
What is the Sanctuary Zone at the end of the Jetty?
The Busselton Jetty Sanctuary Zone surrounds the seaward end of the Jetty and Underwater Observatory area, extending from approximately 50 metres shoreward of the Underwater Observatory, 50 metres either side of the Jetty and 25 metres beyond the end. The Jetty reserve itself is excluded from the marine park zone.
The Sanctuary Zone is a no-take area, meaning fishing and collecting marine life are not permitted.
Can I anchor nearby to dive or snorkel?
Yes, but check where you are before dropping anchor. Boats must remain at least 50 metres from the Jetty structure and anchoring is not permitted within the restricted Jetty/Lot 350 area.
If another boat is displaying a dive flag, you must also stay at least 50 metres clear where possible. If this isn’t possible, slow right down and keep a careful lookout.
Before anchoring, check the closed waters, Sanctuary Zone and current Notices to Mariners for any additional restrictions.
What area does the City’s Jetties Local Law cover?
The Local Law applies to Lot 350 (Reserve 46715), see Image 1, and defines the Busselton Jetty and Swimming Jetty shown in Schedule 4. For most visitors, the key message is simple: follow signs, do not use the Jetty or Lot 350 foreshore as an informal place to land or secure a vessel, and check the official sources below if you are unsure.
Helpful Resources
- City of Busselton – Jetties Local Law 2014
- Transport WA – Busselton to Dunsborough Boating Guide
- Transport WA – Temporary Notices to Mariners
- DBCA – Marine park zones and sanctuary information
Quick reminder: Conditions, closures and marine rules can change. Check the linked official sources before boating around the Jetty
