Walpole, located along Western Australia’s stunning southern coast, is a hidden gem for anglers. Surrounded by the Walpole-Nornalup National Park, this region offers a variety of fishing spots, from serene rivers and inlets to the rugged coastline of the Southern Ocean. Whether you're after a relaxing day of casting a line by the river or reeling in larger catches from the ocean, Walpole has something for every type of fisherman. Here’s your guide to the best fishing spots in Walpole, along with tips to help you make the most of your fishing adventure.

1. Walpole and Nornalup Inlets

The Walpole and Nornalup Inlets are prime spots for both shore fishing and boat fishing, offering calm waters and a variety of species. The inlets are connected to the Southern Ocean via a narrow channel, allowing for both saltwater and brackish water fishing, with the chance to catch species such as black bream, King George whiting, and flathead.

These inlets are known for their tranquil setting, making it an ideal spot for anglers looking for a peaceful day out on the water. The Nornalup Inlet is especially popular for its black bream, a favourite among local and visiting fishermen.

Target Species: Black bream, flathead, whiting, tailor.

Tip: Fish along the edges of the inlets near the drop-offs, as black bream are known to frequent these areas. Use soft plastics or fresh bait like prawns and worms for the best results.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. Frankland River

For those who prefer river fishing, the Frankland River is a fantastic spot located just outside of Walpole. The river is home to a variety of freshwater species, including trout and mulloway. The lower reaches of the Frankland River are particularly good for black bream and mulloway, which can be caught near the river mouth where it flows into the Nornalup Inlet.

The river offers a peaceful and scenic environment for fishing, with plenty of quiet spots to set up for the day. Whether you’re fishing from the riverbank or using a small boat, the Frankland River provides excellent opportunities to catch fish in a tranquil setting.

Target Species: Black bream, trout, mulloway, estuary perch.

Tip: The best time to fish for mulloway is in the early morning or late afternoon. Use live bait such as mullet or squid for a better chance at landing one of these prized fish.

3. Coalmine Beach

Coalmine Beach, located within Walpole-Nornalup National Park, is a popular spot for shore fishing and offers beautiful views of the Nornalup Inlet. The beach is sheltered from the wind, making it a pleasant spot for both fishing and picnicking. You can expect to catch whiting, herring, and bream from the shoreline, especially during the warmer months when these species are more active.

Coalmine Beach is easily accessible and has nearby camping facilities, making it a great spot for a multi-day fishing trip. The calm waters are also perfect for fishing with light tackle.

Target Species: Herring, whiting, black bream, flathead.

Tip: Cast your line in the early morning or evening when the water is calm and the fish are more likely to be feeding close to shore. Soft plastics and light gear work well in these waters.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

4. Conspicuous Cliff Beach

For anglers seeking a more adventurous fishing experience, Conspicuous Cliff Beach offers a rugged, ocean fishing destination. This stunning beach on the Southern Ocean is known for its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves, but it’s also a productive spot for surf fishing. Species such as salmon, tailor, herring, and bronze whaler sharks can be caught off the beach, especially during the warmer months.

Due to the strong waves and rip currents, fishing at Conspicuous Cliff Beach requires some caution, but the rewards can be great for experienced anglers. The beach is relatively remote, so it’s ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more solitary fishing experience.

Target Species: Australian salmon, herring, tailor, sharks.

Tip: Use heavier tackle and metal lures to cast beyond the breaking waves, as this is where salmon and tailor often feed. Be mindful of the tides and currents, and stay safe when fishing in rougher conditions.

5. Long Point

Located west of Walpole, Long Point offers another excellent surf fishing spot with access to the Southern Ocean. Known for its rocky outcrops and long stretches of sand, Long Point is a productive location for targeting Australian salmon, herring, and tailor. The area is also popular with drone fishing enthusiasts, who use drones to take their lines further offshore to target larger species.

Long Point is more remote than other fishing spots around Walpole, so it’s perfect for anglers seeking solitude. It’s also a great spot to explore while hiking along the nearby Bibbulmun Track, allowing you to combine fishing with other outdoor activities.

Target Species: Australian salmon, tailor, herring, sharks.

Tip: Live bait works well for tailor and salmon in this area, especially during the annual salmon run in the cooler months. Make sure to bring a sturdy rod, as the surf can be rough at times.

6. Mandalay Beach

Mandalay Beach is another beautiful location for beach fishing on the Southern Ocean. Famous for its views of the Mandalay wreck, the beach offers anglers the chance to target Australian salmon, flathead, and herring. The beach is remote and unspoiled, providing a peaceful backdrop for a day of fishing.

Due to its location, Mandalay Beach is ideal for those looking to enjoy a more rugged and wild fishing experience. The beach also offers scenic views of Chatham Island and the surrounding coastline, making it a picturesque spot for fishing.

Target Species: Australian salmon, flathead, herring, whiting.

Tip: During the salmon season (March to May), Mandalay Beach is a hot spot for catching large schools of salmon as they migrate along the coast.

Image © Greg Snell

Fishing Tips for Walpole

1. Tides and Weather: Always check the tides and weather forecast before heading out, especially when surf fishing along the coast. Higher tides and calm weather generally offer better fishing conditions.

2. Bait and Lures: Soft plastics, live bait, and metal lures work well in both the rivers and ocean around Walpole. Choose your bait based on the species you're targeting, with prawns and worms being effective for black bream, and squid or mullet ideal for mulloway and salmon.

3. Licensing: Make sure you have a valid recreational fishing licence for the area, especially if you plan to fish from a boat or target certain species like marron or trout.

4. Safety First: When fishing along the rugged coastline, always be cautious of strong currents, high waves, and slippery rocks. Bring proper gear, including life jackets and sturdy footwear, and fish with a partner if possible.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Final Thoughts

Fishing in Walpole offers an incredible variety of experiences, from the tranquil waters of the inlets and rivers to the more challenging ocean fishing along the Southern Ocean coastline. With an abundance of species and breathtaking scenery, this region is a haven for both beginner and experienced anglers. Whether you're casting a line from the shore, paddling out in a kayak, or setting up camp for a multi-day fishing trip, Walpole's fishing spots promise a rewarding and peaceful experience.