⚠️
West Coast Demersal Closure in Effect
Scarlet Sea Perch 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
Scarlet Sea Perch
Lutjanus malabaricus
Also known as: Scarlet Perch, Saddletail Snapper
DPIRD Category
Demersal Scalefish
Peak Season
Year round
Difficulty
Moderate
Fight Rating
★★★☆☆
Regulations & Limits
DEMERSAL SCALEFISH
⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies
Scarlet Sea Perch 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
300mm
Individual Limit
8 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
300mm
Individual Limit
8 fish
Mixed Limit
Within 5 demersal total
✓ Open year-round.
Good to Know
- Part of tropical snappers group (Family Lutjanidae)
- Also known as saddletail snapper
ℹ️ Regulations can change. Always verify current rules at rules.fish.wa.gov.au
Size & Weight
| Typical Size | 45 cm |
| Max Size | 80 cm |
| Typical Weight | 4 kg |
| Max Weight | 12 kg |
Habitat
Where: Offshore reefs, structure, drop-offs
Depth: 30-200m
ID Features: Red body with darker saddle marking near tail, 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 Scarlet Sea Perch
1
Bottom fishing
Setup
- Line: PE2-3 / 12-20kg
- Leader: 30-50lb fluoro
Top Lures
- Soft plastics 4-5inch
- Small jigs 60-100g
Best Baits
- Squid
- Pilchards
- Fish strips
Eating Quality
Flesh: White
Best cooked: Steamed, grilled, pan fried
The Fight
Deep water fighter