Shore-based recreational angling in the Rottnest Island Reserve, Western Australia: Spatial and temporal distribution of catch and fishing effort

Abstract

The Rottnest Island Reserve, located off southwestern Australia, is one of the most popular recreational fishing locations in Western Australia. In the reserve, standard Western Australian recreational fishing regulations apply and there are two small "no-take" conservation sanctuary areas. A roving creel survey of shore-based recreational angling in the reserve was conducted from January to December 2003. In total, 1 053 anglers were recorded which included individuals, families, school groups and angling club members. The total annual shore-based angling effort for Rottnest island was calculated to be 23 899 angler outings and the total catch estimated at 53 994 retained fish. Fishing effort was concentrated in the settlement area on the eastern side of the island and the highest levels of catch and effort were recorded in April, May and July. During the survey, 33 fish species were identified in the catch and the small, pelagic species Australian Herring dominated with 7.27 tonnes caught during the study. Shore-based anglers also caught and released a large number of non-target species. The survey has provided spatial and temporal data that can be used as a benchmark and to support decision making by the Rottnest Island Authority with respect to biodiversity conservation and the Department of Fisheries with regard to management of shore-based recreational angling in the Rottnest Island Reserve.