Spear fishing is a popular form of recreational fishing and has been recognised for its selective fishing practices. For more on spear fishing / diving, see apneaaustralia.com.au and auf.com.au
When under the water, follow these important tips so you come back up again:
Know the conditions
Make sure you are aware of local weather, swell and tidal conditions before going fishing. Once at a fishing location take time to observe the current conditions, they may be different to those predicted or may be changing.
For more on conditions, see bom.gov.au
Know how to swim
Spear fishing requires an advanced level of swimming. You should consider your own swimming ability before attempting to go spear fishing.
For more on learn how to swim, see royallifesaving.com.au
Tell someone your plans
It is always a good idea to let a responsible person know where you will be fishing and what time you plan on returning. Also never fish alone, fishing with a friend or family will allow you look out for each other and help each other in an emergency, it’s also great fun!
Shark sightings
Please report all shark sightings directly to the Water Police on 9442 8600. This number is staffed 24 hours, seven days a week and will activate any required response.
Keep informed of the latest reported sighting and tagged shark detection information by checking the Shark Activity Map or follow the Surf Life Saving WA twitter feed @SLSWA. The Shark Activity Map provides beach users with ‘real time’ information on reported sightings and tagged shark detections, as well as access to Surf Life Saving WA’s twitter feed and current alerts and warnings issued by the Department of Fisheries. Remember the map shows available information – not all sharks are tagged, or sightings reported, so be Sharksmart when using the water.
People are asked to refrain from phoning rangers direct for updates as these phone lines need to be available to coordinate shark sighting response activities.
For more information about shark sighting response plans and procedures as well as shark safety tips visit the Sharksmart website.
