PO Box 94
Derby WA 6728

Phone: (08) 9191 0999
Fax: (08) 9191 0998

sdwk@sdwk.wa.gov.au

Fishing

In Derby

The Wharf

Cod and groper are often caught at the wharf; salmon, mulloway, golden grunter, sharks and catfish are known to frequent the area. Mud crabs abound on most tides.

Around Derby

The King Sound

There are a number of small creeks north and south of the wharf that abound with mud crabs. These are accessible by dinghy (10ft or bigger). Other areas in the King Sound should only be travelled to in boats 16ft or bigger. All Marine and Harbours safety rules and guidelines should be strictly adhered to. Weather, tides and other local conditions are critical to any venturers into King Sound and it is incumbent upon all to avail themselves of all relevant information.

North of Derby

Point Torment

This track is for 4WD vehicles only and should not be used during high tides (10 metres or above). It is about 50km from Derby on a very roundabout route. A detailed map is required. Seek advice from West Kimberley Guns 'n Ammo, Fitzroy Street, Derby.

North-East of Derby

May River

About 40kms north east of Derby on the Gibb River Road. An attractive and popular spot. Cherrabun as well as some barra are caught here, mostly after the wet season while the pools have sufficient water.

South of Derby

Langi Crossing

This is the old unsealed road to Broome, about 75kms south of Derby. Cherrabun (fresh water prawns) abound here. This is private property. Seek permission from Yeeda Station.

Telegraph Pool

This is on the same track as Langi Crossing. Distance about 80km from Derby. This is private property. Seek permission from Yeeda Station.

Pelican Pool

Also along the same track as Langi Crossing. Approx. 95kms from Derby. Detailed map is essential. This is private property.Seek permission from Yeeda Station.

Willare Bridge/Fitzroy River

Barramundi frequent here in the deep pools up and down the river. Cherabin are also caught here but are not as easy to catch due to the steeper banks and faster water flow.

The creeks and rivers that are listed above are the natural habitat of the potentially dangerous salt water crocodiles. Strictly no swimming. 4WD vehicles are recommended, and needed to get to most locations. Always obtain current advise including weather, tide information and a detailed map and/or directions before heading to these locations. Except for the wharf all fishing locations involve unsealed tracks, often impassable in the wet season. Many are on private property and the permission of the landholder must be sort.

Precautions to Take

The West Kimberley area is remote. The following precautions should be mandatory for anyone who intends to undertake a fishing trip.

• Check the weather and sea reports before you leave home especially during the cyclone season.
• Make sure you are familiar with local tides.
• Let family or friends know where you are going, and when you will return.
• Ensure you boat has the correct safety gear and that is in good order.
• If traveling in remote areas ensure your vehicle is in good order and that you have the appropriate spares and recovery equipment.
• Always carry plenty of water.
• Wear suitable clothes and shoes.
• Always wear a hat or ensure you boat has plenty of shade.
• Carry safety gear such as rope, a torch and a lifejacket.
• Don’t turn your back on the sea.
• Stay alert – especially when fishing in known crocodile waters!

Ensure that you take your rubbish home with you. Most of the fishing areas are on Station Leases. It is important that when passing through gates you leave them as you find them. If open, leave open, if shut, close after entry. No shooting is allowed on these properties.

For the most up-to-date information on fisheries and fishing rules in plain English, check the Department of Fisheries’ web site at www.fish.wa.gov.au or contact the Department before going fishing.

You should be aware that all fishing activities may be subject to optical surveillance by Fisheries and Marine Officers. Breaking recreational fishing rules may result in an infringement notice or legal action being initiated against you. Fines for recreational fishing offences may be as high as $5,000 plus up to 10 times the dollar value of the species.

Further Information

Department of Fisheries
3rd Floor, The Atrium,
168 St George’s Terrace, Perth 6000
Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (08) 9482 7333
Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (08) 9482 7389
Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fish.wa.gov.au
Email . . . . . . . . . . .headoffice@fish.wa.gov.au

Broome Regional Office
Port of Pearls House
401 Port Drive, PO Box 71, Broome 6725
Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (08) 9193 8600
Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (08) 9193 8688

Leisure

	Derby
	Fitzroy Crossing
	Fishing