The mackerel fishery in Western Australia extends from the West Coast Bioregion to the Northern Territory border, with the largest proportion of the catch taken in the North Coast Bioregion.
Commercial fishers target Spanish mackerel in coastal areas around reefs, shoals and headlands. They work from small vessels and tow near-surface trolling gear (baited fishing lines). Jig fishing (line fishing with a type of lure) is also used to catch a much smaller amount of grey mackerel and other mackerel species.
Catches in the WA mackerel fishery are reported separately for three areas: Kimberley, Pilbara and Gascoyne/West Coast.
For further information about commercial catch and effort please refer to the Status reports of the fisheries and aquatic resources of Western Australia. This publication should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report.