⚠️

West Coast Demersal Closure in Effect

Chinaman Fish is part of the West Coast demersal scalefish closure. Boat-based recreational fishing for this species is prohibited until Spring 2027.

View full closure details →
West Coast Closed

Chinaman Fish

Symphorus nematophorus

Also known as: Chinaman, Chinamanfish

DPIRD Category Demersal Scalefish
Peak Season Year round
Difficulty Moderate
Fight Rating ★★★☆☆
Chinaman Fish

Regulations & Limits

DEMERSAL SCALEFISH

⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies

Chinaman Fish count towards your total demersal scalefish bag limit. You can keep a maximum of 2 demersal scalefish total statewide.

Limits by Bioregion

West Coast CLOSED
Species not commonly found in this region
South Coast N/A
Species not commonly found in this region
Gascoyne OPEN
Min Size —
Individual Limit 3 fish
Mixed Limit Within 5 demersal total
✓ Open year-round.
Pilbara N/A
Species not commonly found in this region
North Coast (Kimberley) OPEN
Min Size —
Individual Limit 3 fish
Mixed Limit Within 5 demersal total
✓ Open year-round.

Good to Know

  • Part of tropical snappers group (Family Lutjanidae)
  • NOT the same as Chinaman Rockcod (Charlie Court) which is nearshore

ℹ️ Regulations can change. Always verify current rules at rules.fish.wa.gov.au

Size & Weight

Typical Size50 cm
Max Size80 cm
Typical Weight5 kg
Max Weight12 kg

Habitat

Where: Deep offshore reefs, structure

Depth: 50-200m

ID Features: Pink-red with distinctive filament from dorsal fin, large eyes

Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Peak Available Poor

Peak: Year round | Water Temp: 24 – 30°C

How to Catch Chinaman Fish

1

Bottom fishing

Setup

  • Line: PE2-4 / 15-24kg
  • Leader: 40-60lb fluoro

Top Lures

  • Soft plastics 4-5inch
  • Slow jigs 80-150g

Best Baits

  • Squid
  • Pilchards
  • Fish strips

Eating Quality

★★★★★ Excellent

Flesh: White

Best cooked: Steamed, grilled (premium)

The Fight

★★★☆☆ 3/5

Deep water puller

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