West Moore Island is located halfway (about 1.5 hours by car) between Karratha and Port Headland in the Pilbara region of northern Western Australia. As fishing vacations go, this destination offers it all. It is offered from sport fishing on land to intensive deep sea fishing, along with a range of alternative activities other than fishing.
Guests can simply choose to explore the island and observe some of the many native animals, swim and snorkel, bird watch, collect oysters, kayak, or take time to view historic rock art. There is so much on offer that everyone in your group will be well and truly cared for. West Moore Island is undoubtedly one of Australia’s best fishing destinations.
Land fishing
At the eastern ends of the island is a system of rock pools without limits. All kinds of fish get caught in the pools and make fishing easier when the tide goes out. However, you will still need to have your game head on, as the fish seem to have a deep sense of fear when in this restricted space. Using baits instead of lures works well.
Off the island it is not unusual to be hit by the colossal queenfish at high tide. They come to feed on the bait by swimming in swarms. There is likely a smaller golden trevally, as well as a variety of species of salmon and small sharks. Cod from the estuary can be fished on the rugged eastern tip of the island.
The north side of the island is rocky, usually with a swell of some kind that creeps in. At the right time, it is possible to cast and retrieve decent whiting. Perseverance will result in catching other reef fish, but to be honest, you probably have a beer in hand and don’t care if something smells or not.
Coastal – Fishing in small boats (light boats)
Small boats (4.2m aluminum boats) are available for your use, fully included in your rate. Each boat carries a maximum of 4 people and is equipped with a 25 hp outboard motor, depth sounder, radio and all the necessary safety equipment.
Guests can use these boats to take advantage of the many easily accessible fishing options on the island. They’re also perfect for exploring unlimited stream snapshots and mud crabbing.
Fuel is provided at $ 3 per liter. Lures that have proven themselves on the inshore fishing grounds around the island are available for purchase on the island.
A recreational skipper ticket, plus a recreational fishing boat license, is required for any general fishing activity conducted using a motorized boat anywhere in WA beginning March 2, 2010. Guests who wish to use the boats need both licenses.
Deep Sea – Charter Fishing
West Moore Island offers a selection of vessels to guests for charter trips to local islands and offshore, including Geographer Shoals and surrounding areas. Expect the Unexpected – Experience the strikes of the great Cobia, schools of great mackerel out of nowhere, and gigantic reef fish. Spangled Emperor, Red Emperor, a variety of cod and pelagic species, plus Honking Brassy and Golden Trevally offer challenging bottom fishing.
The staff will help you make the right decision for your group, considering the weather and what your group wants from their time on the island.
Characteristics and prices of Day Charter (full day):
- Fishing tackle and tackle.
- Lunch to go, soft drinks and snacks.
- Bait.
- Ice.
- Price: $ 3,000 for a day of 8 to 10 hours, maximum 12 people.
Anglers are not required to have a recreational fishing boat license when fishing on our licensed rental boats.
You may prefer a more individual experience – guided excursions with a host island to secret fishing spots or a leisurely tour of Depuch and West Moore Islands can be tailored to your specific needs. The cost of a guided experience is around $ 100 per hour (minimum 4 hours).
Baggage limits:
The waters here are abundant. We want our guests to return to the island and enjoy this incredible fishing experience for generations to come. West Moore Island imposes a bag limit of 10 kg of fillets, or a maximum of 1 of our foam transport boxes, per person, per stay. 10 kg is a lot of fish, but it is a slightly lower limit than the fishing requirement. This applies to all West Moore Island guests, with no exceptions.
Your catch will be vacuum packed and frozen ready for you to take home.
The tourist season begins at the beginning of March of each year and runs until the end of November. West Moore Island is one of the most unique fishing trip experiences available in Australia or the world. Like a remote bush camp in an island setting, the entire operation is self-sufficient. Power is generated on the island and all water and consumables are transported from the mainland. If you are looking for an adventure to remember for years to come, I highly recommend that you consider West Moore Island in Western Australia for your next fishing vacation.
