The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is urging families to stay SharkSmart during the annual autumn chase of Western Australian salmon along the south and west coasts.
Minister for Fisheries, Don Punch said that during their westward migration along the State’s coasts, thousands of adult salmon aggregated to spawn during the autumn months before the Leeuwin Current dispersed their eggs and larvae to protected coastal nurseries.
“Salmon form large schools along surf beaches and inshore reef systems, making them ideal targets for holidaying families who want to wet a line and catch one of these prized sports fish,” Mr Punch said.
“Although large schools of salmon are great for fishers, the salmon run attracts sharks close to shore.”
He said swimmers, divers and other ocean users were advised to stay away from large salmon schools and other fish, seals or other wildlife acting erratically; and to fish, swim, dive or surf with a friend if possible.
“While shark encounters in WA are rare, every Western Australian is urged to switch on their sea sense whenever they head into the water to help reduce their risk of a shark encounter,” Mr Punch said.
“I urge everyone planning to fish during the annual salmon run, head out spearfishing or make a splash at the beach … to switch on their sea sense and download the free SharkSmart WA app before heading out into the ocean.
Further information about how to stay safe and sharksmart in the water can be accessed at this PS News link.
