The small coastal town of Exmouth is in remote north-west of Western Australia, around 1,300km from Perth. Sitting at the tip of the North West Cape, it provides access to an exceptionally diverse saltwater fishery, with the Ningaloo Reef, gulf and bluewater environments all within easy reach.
For fly anglers, the appeal is the sheer variety. Depending on conditions and tides, a day can involve sight fishing the flats for Indo-Pacific permit, bonefish and trevally, chasing larger fish around the reef and gulf, or heading offshore in search of pelagic species. With such a broad range of options, Exmouth works equally well for dedicated fishing trips and holidays combining fishing with other activities.
Fishing Opportunities in Exmouth:
Ningaloo Reef: The Ningaloo Reef system is home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life, with around 250 species of coral and more than 500 species of fish. The clear, shallow waters provide exciting sight-fishing opportunities for Indo-Pacific permit, giant trevally, golden trevally, bonefish and milkfish, as well as queenfish and a variety of reef species.
Gulf Fishery: The gulf offers a very different environment, with estuaries, island reefs, flats and rocky structures providing habitat for a wide variety of fish. Giant trevally, permit, golden trevally, queenfish, coral trout, barramundi, tuna, giant herring and emperors are among the species that can be targeted here.
Bluewater Fishing: Beyond the reef, the bluewater fishery adds another dimension, with cobia, golden trevally and milkfish found around the reef and larger pelagic species including tuna, mackerel, sailfish and marlin available further offshore. It is this combination of flats, reef, gulf and bluewater fishing that makes Exmouth particularly versatile.
Fishing Methods: Although the focus is on fly fishing, the local guides are experienced across a range of techniques. Wade fishing is possible in the right conditions, but fishing from a boat allows anglers to cover more ground and respond quickly to changing tides, feeding activity and opportunities as they arise.
When to Go: October to December is generally regarded as the prime period, particularly for anglers targeting permit and giant trevally, with January to March also offering excellent opportunities. Fishing is possible throughout the year, although the species and conditions vary with the season.
Accommodation:
Exmouth has a wide range of accommodation, from self-catering options and resort style hotels to eco-luxury properties. This flexibility makes it suitable for solo anglers and groups, as well as families and couples combining fishing with a wider holiday. We can tailor the accommodation and fishing arrangements around the type of trip you have in mind.
Activities Beyond Fishing:
Exmouth is an excellent destination for non-fishing companions, with the Ningaloo Coast offering plenty to see and do. Snorkelling and diving on the reef, kayaking, sailing, swimming, surfing, hiking and four-wheel-drive excursions are all possible, while the region’s abundant wildlife provides another major attraction.
The area is particularly well known for its marine encounters, including opportunities to swim with whale sharks, see humpback whales and observe nesting turtles at certain times of year. Birdwatching and exploring the dramatic landscapes of the North West Cape are also worthwhile additions to a fishing trip.
Whether the priority is chasing a hard-fighting Indo-Pacific permit on the flats, targeting a giant trevally around the reef or simply enjoying a few days of fishing as part of a wider Western Australian adventure, Exmouth offers an unusual amount of variety from one base. It is a destination where anglers can move from flats to bluewater in a single day, with plenty to keep non-fishing companions occupied too.
Exmouth is known for its interesting wildlife encounters, such as swimming with whale sharks (March to September), witnessing humpback whales (August to October), and observing nesting turtles (November to March).
In summary, Exmouth, Western Australia, is a versatile destination offering exceptional fishing opportunities, a range of accommodation options, and a variety of outdoor activities for both anglers and non-anglers alike. It’s a destination that caters to a wide range of interests and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Skip to minute 13 on the video below for fly fishing on Ningaloo Reef
For more information on Exmouth in Western Australia please contact Alex Jardine or call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.
