⚠️
West Coast Demersal Closure in Effect
Crimson Snapper 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
Crimson Snapper
Lutjanus erythropterus
Also known as: Crimson, Crimson Sea Perch
DPIRD Category
Demersal Scalefish
Peak Season
Year round
Difficulty
Moderate
Fight Rating
★★★☆☆
Regulations & Limits
DEMERSAL SCALEFISH
⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies
Crimson Snapper 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)
ℹ️ Regulations can change. Always verify current rules at rules.fish.wa.gov.au
Size & Weight
| Typical Size | 40 cm |
| Max Size | 65 cm |
| Typical Weight | 3 kg |
| Max Weight | 8 kg |
Habitat
Where: Offshore reefs, structure
Depth: 30-150m
ID Features: Red/crimson body, paler belly, red fins
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 Crimson Snapper
1
Bottom fishing
Setup
- Line: PE3-5 / 20-30kg
- Leader: 50-80lb fluoro
Top Lures
- Soft plastics 5-6inch
- Slow jigs 100-200g
Best Baits
- Squid
- Pilchards
- Octopus
Eating Quality
Flesh: White
Best cooked: Grilled, steamed, pan fried
The Fight
Solid fighter