Point Samson Reef - A Special Place Requiring Protection

Fishing Prohibitions

From June 2006, new rules apply to recreational and commercial fishing at Point Samson Reef. These rules comprise a set of prohibitions that have been made under Section 43 of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994.

What fishing activities are now prohibited?

• All commercial fishing activities
• Recreational fishing activities except for:
  • recreational fishing for finfish by means of a rod, reel and line, or a line held in the hand; and
  • recreational fishing for fish of the Class Osteichthyes (bony fishes only – not including cartilaginous fishes like sharks, skates and rays) by means of a pointed instrument (speargun, gidgee etc).

Where are these fishing activities prohibited?

Simply stated, the reef-protection zone extends from the point north of Sam's Creek, south to the old Point Samson Jetty.

The prohibition is effective from the high water mark seaward to encompass the reef platform as indicated in the map over. Please refer to the map for exact co-ordinates of the fishing prohibition area.

Why have these prohibitions been introduced?

Point Samson Reef is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. It is expected that visitor numbers will grow even further with the completion of a new caravan park and chalet development.

Human behaviour is the greatest risk to the reef's ecosystem. More people on the reef means more pressure on the marine creatures that live there.

Concerned about the increasing degradation of the reef, the Point Samson Community Association and the Department of Fisheries worked together to initiate new regulations designed to declare Point Samson Reef as a “no-take” zone.

The new rules have the support of the WA Fishing Industry Council, Recfishwest and the local community and businesses.

What happens to those who break the rules?

Offenders can face penalties of;

• a general penalty of up to $5000 for a first offence (with second and subsequent offences attracting much larger penalties); and
• an additional penalty equal to 10 times the prescribed value or any fish subject of the offence.

Fisheries and Marine Officers regularly patrol Point Samson Reef and will apprehend any individuals who are found in breach of the rules.

Help protect Point Samson Reef

Show your respect for Point Samson Reef - abide by the rules - do not take or attempt to take fish or collect marine animals (including live and dead shells) in any manner other than the two exceptions listed. They are the only types of fishing activity permitted at Point Samson Reef.

If you see any suspected illegal fishing activity on Point Samson Reef, please call:

• Department of Fisheries, Karratha District Office on (08) 9144 4337, or
• Fishwatch on 1800 815 507.