Salmon fight not worth the risk

Fishermen and women are being reminded to stay safe this month followig the beginning of the annual salmon run and a busy holiday season.

Capes fisherman Ray Walker - who has been teaching rock fishing safety at schools around the region for years - urged people to use their common sense if they were planning on rock fishing in the region.

"Over the years when I'd go down and the swell was big or it was windy I would say 'oh, not today'," he said.

"Whereas with visitors they say 'oh, I'll have a quick fish' and the quick fish will be their last."

Mr Walker has worked to have rock fishing anchor points installed at popular fishing locations around the South West including Cape Naturaliste, Wyadup Rocks, Contos and Skippy Rock near Augusta.

He said people must be responsible when fishing.

"The most important thing down there is to use common sense," he said.

Mr Walker advised rock fishers to be equipped with rock hopper boots, ropes, life vests and the appropriate clothing and to check conditions beforehand.

In advice issued at Easter, Recfishwest also advised rock fishers to never fish alone.