⚠️

West Coast Demersal Closure in Effect

Swallowtail 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 Demersal Closure (until Spring 2027)

Swallowtail

Centroberyx lineatus

Also known as: Swallowtail perch

DPIRD Category Demersal
Peak Season Year-round
Difficulty Intermediate
Fight Rating ★★☆☆☆
Swallowtail

Regulations & Limits

DEMERSAL

⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies

Swallowtail 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 N/A
Species not commonly found in this region
Pilbara N/A
Species not commonly found in this region
North Coast (Kimberley) N/A
Species not commonly found in this region

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

Size & Weight

Typical Size25-35 cm
Max Size50 cm
Typical Weight0.5-1.5 kg
Max Weight3 kg

Habitat

Where: Deep rocky reefs and rough bottom

Depth: 50-250m

ID Features: Red/orange body with deeply forked (swallow-shaped) tail, large eyes

Season

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

Peak: Year-round | Water Temp: 14-20°C

How to Catch Swallowtail

1

Deep bottom fishing

Setup

  • Line: PE 3-5
  • Leader: 30-50lb fluorocarbon

Top Lures

  • Flasher rigs

Best Baits

  • Squid
  • Pilchards

Eating Quality

★★★★☆ Very Good

Flesh: Pink-red flesh, firm with good flavour

Best cooked: Pan-fried, grilled, baked

The Fight

★★☆☆☆ 2/5

Moderate fighters from deep water. Part of the nannygai group with similar characteristics.

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