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West Coast Demersal Closure in Effect

Western Wirrah 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)

Western Wirrah

Acanthistius serratus

Also known as: Wirrah, old wife

DPIRD Category Demersal
Peak Season Year-round (when open)
Difficulty Beginner
Fight Rating ★★☆☆☆
Western Wirrah

Regulations & Limits

DEMERSAL

⚖️ Mixed Species Limit Applies

Western Wirrah 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 Weight4 kg

Habitat

Where: Rocky reefs, ledges and caves in temperate waters

Depth: 5-80m

ID Features: Dark brown/olive body with pale blotches, large mouth, serrated gill cover

Season

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

Peak: Year-round (when open) | Water Temp: 16-22°C

How to Catch Western Wirrah

1

Bottom fishing

Setup

  • Line: PE 1-2
  • Leader: 20-30lb fluorocarbon

Top Lures

  • Small soft plastics

Best Baits

  • Prawns
  • Squid

Eating Quality

★★★☆☆ Good

Flesh: White, firm flesh

Best cooked: Pan-fried

The Fight

★★☆☆☆ 2/5

Short dashes into the reef. Part of the rockcods group (Ephinephelidae and Serranidae).

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