G’day — I’m Trevor from Monkey Mia Boat Hire, Shark Bay.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering about fishing at Shark Bay, you’re in the right place. My family and I have been fishing at Shark Bay for years — we love helping visitors find the best spots, gear up right, and make the most of their time here. Here’s your local’s guide to an epic fishing day out.

🐠 Why Shark Bay is a Fishing Paradise

Shark Bay’s World Heritage waters are an absolute dream for anglers — shallow flats, reef ledges, island drop-offs and channels teeming with fish.

When it comes to fishing at Shark Bay, you’ll find a wide variety of fish species to target.

You’ve got a fair shot at sand whiting, snapper, bluebone, coral trout, cod, and even big Spanish mackerel on the right day — all within easy reach.

For the best experience in fishing at Shark Bay, timing is everything.

📍 Top Fishing Spots in Shark Bay

✅ Denham Jetty: Perfect for families — catch whiting, black Snapper , Squid , flathead and bream with easy access.

✅ Monkey Mia: Come for the dolphins, stay for the fishing — beach fish for whiting, , jew fish or jump on a boat for snapper and cod.

✅ Bottle Bay: One of my personal favourites — fish the shallows for solid sand whiting, or try ballooning for mackerel when conditions allow.

Don’t forget that fishing at Shark Bay can be more rewarding during certain tidal movements.

✅ Gregories: Beautiful clear water, reef diving, and fishing — coral trout, cod, emperor and bluebone love the structure here.

✅ Steep Point: Mainland Australia’s most western point — a top spot for big pelagics if you’re keen for the mission.

✅ Inside Dirk Hartog Island: Sheltered bays, reef edges — easy to explore with a self-drive hire boat.

✅ Around the islands: Hire one of our boats and you’ll get our local GPS marks so you’re fishing proven spots — no guesswork.

🎣 What Gear to Bring

Having the right gear is essential for a successful day of fishing at Shark Bay.

✔ Light spin gear (2–4kg) for whiting, bream & flathead.
✔ Medium rods (6–10kg) for snapper and cod.
✔ Heavy tackle for bluebone — strong leader (50–80lb) and fresh bait like crabs or prawns. Bluebone love to bust you off in the reef!
✔ Balloon rig for mackerel — sturdy rod, wire trace and drift bait like garfish or mullet.

Need bait?

Stop by the Denham Fish Factory or Shark Bay Fuel & Hardware — they’ve always got fresh bait, ice, and local tips.

🎣 Snapper Fishing at Shark Bay (Pink Snapper)

Many anglers ask about the best methods for fishing at Shark Bay.

One of the most asked-about species in Shark Bay — and for good reason.

Where to Fish:

• Channel Markers around Denham
• Denham Sound (especially during the right tide run)
• Deeper water off Gregories and island drop-offs

How to Catch Them:

• Medium-heavy rod (6–10kg), tough leader, and strong drag
• Bait: squid, pilchard, mullet fillet
• Anchor or drift and run a steady burley trail
• Best times: early morning and late arvo

Regulations:
Fishing in shark bay has some Snapper in Shark Bay are under strict rules. Size and bag limits apply, and seasonal closures often affect the Inner Gulf. Always check the Recfishwest app or ask us when you hire — we’re across the latest.

Remember, when fishing at Shark Bay, always abide by the local regulations.

⛽️ 🍔 Fuel, Food & Local Supplies

Fill up at Shark Bay Fuel & Hardware — fuel, ice, bait and extra tackle bits if you’re short.

Fancy a bite before or after your trip?
✔ Head to the Heritage Hotel for a cold beer and a hearty meal overlooking the bay.
✔ Grab a pie, fresh bread or sweet treats from the Shark Bay Bakery — perfect for packing the esky before you launch.
✔ For a quick snack or coffee, Shark Bay Café is always friendly and tasty.

🏠 Where to Stay

There are many options for families looking to enjoy fishing at Shark Bay.

There’s something for every style and budget:
✅ Shark Bay Caravan Park — great for travellers towing the van or looking for a classic, laid-back Aussie stay.
✅ Oceanside Village — beachside villas with ocean views.
✅ Shark Bay Seafront Apartments — comfortable, self-contained and central.
✅ RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort — the dolphins right at your doorstep if you want that special Monkey Mia vibe.
✅ Plenty of camping spots and more — just ask us and we’ll point you in the right direction.

🐬 Local Tips From Our Family-What’s the best time to go fishing in the bay?

✅ Fish the tides — early mornings or sunset sessions are usually calm and the bite’s better.
✅ Check the rules — Shark Bay is in the Gascoyne Coast Bioregion. Use the Recfishwest app to check bag and size limits.
✅ Watch for dolphins and dugongs — it’s all part of the adventure.
✅ Keep it clean — please take your rubbish and old lines home.

🚤 Why Hire a Boat at Shark Bay?

A boat lets you reach those magic drop-offs, reef ledges and hidden beaches that shore-based fishing can’t touch. Our self-drive hire boats come with all safety gear, marked GPS spots, and a proper local briefing. Bring your rods, bait, and sense of adventure — we’ll sort the rest.

👨‍👩‍👦 Make It a Day to Remember

There’s nothing better than a fresh feed after a day fishing, a cold drink at the Heritage, or a warm pie from the bakery to kick things off. We love seeing families come back with smiles, stories and a few fillets for the BBQ.

After a long day of fishing at Shark Bay, nothing beats a hearty meal.

🎣 Ready to Go Fishing at Shark Bay?

If you’re ready, let’s make this a memorable day of fishing at Shark Bay!

If you’re keen to chase whiting, bluebone, or balloon for a big mackie, my family and I have the boats and local know-how to help you get it done right.

Join us for an unforgettable experience in fishing at Shark Bay.

📍 Drop in and see us at Monkey Mia Boat Hire Shark Bay — we’re all about friendly service and sharing this special place with you.
👉 Visit monkeymiaboathire.com

or give us a call to book your next fishing adventure.