WA government urges recreational fishers to put safety first during WA salmon run

Authorities are urging fishers to stay safe during this year’s salmon run with the annual event set to draw a crowd across the Great Southern and South West.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has advised fishers to stick to the beach and “keep the sand between your toes”, rather than venturing to rock fishing spots.

Recreational fishers are also reminded to bleed their catches away from the water’s edge and to discard fish waste responsibly — away from swimmers and other water users.

DPIRD shark response unit manager Michael Burke said swimmers, surfers, divers and beach goers should be aware of increased shark activity close to shore during the salmon run and stay away from big schools of fish in the water.

Mr Burke said DPIRD’s SharkSmart WA app was the best way to stay informed of reported shark activity and to help plan beach trips with safety in mind.

“The SharkSmart WA app has been downloaded on more than 225,000 devices, with information on beach safety features such as beach enclosure locations, Surf Life Saving WA patrolled beaches and weather conditions,” he said.

“The app provides near real-time information on shark activity and users can select their favourite coastal locations to receive updates as they happen.

“Surf Life Saving WA also plays a vital role in keeping people safe at our beaches and their metropolitan aerial patrols will be flying daily until the end of April.

“The South West helicopter will be in the air throughout the school holidays including Easter.”

The SLSWA helicopter will sound its siren to notify the public if a shark is in close proximity.

DPIRD says water users should exit the water immediately, check SharkSmart for shark activity information and remain out of the water for at least 60 minutes.

Fishers and beach users are urged to check www.sharksmart.com.au or download the SharkSmart WA app before heading out.

Any shark sightings should be reported to Water Police on 9442 8600, making note of the nearest Beach Emergency Number (BEN) sign.