Plan Your Fuel & Route

View of the exterior of the Mt Barnett Roadhouse and fuel bowsers on the Gibb River Road

Plan Your Fuel & Route

Plan your North West WA trip  - check fuel stops, EV charging stations and key route information, and confirm availability via visitor centres or the FuelWatch app.

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Port Hedland Fishing

Port Hedland offers some of the Pilbara’s most varied fishing, where you can target barramundi in tidal creeks, mangrove jack in sheltered mangroves, and hard-fighting offshore species like Spanish mackerel, red emperor and coral trout just a short boat run from town. Whether you’re land-based, fishing from a jetty, or heading offshore, the mix of environments means there’s something biting year-round.

A man in a tinny holding a freshly caught barra, in a creek near Port Hedland
Creek fishing in Port Hedland

Creek & Estuary Fishing

The creek systems around Port Hedland are highly productive, especially after seasonal rainfall and tidal movement. These sheltered waters are ideal for light tackle and are known for consistent inshore action.

Key species include:

  • Barramundi (best in summer)
  • Mangrove jack
  • Cod
  • Bream
  • Threadfin salmon
  • Blue salmon
  • Fingermark
  • Mud crab

Popular creek fishing areas include Four Mile Creek and Six Mile Creek, both offering access to mangrove-lined habitats where predator fish ambush baitfish with the tide.

A child holding a Trevally, freshly caught from the shore at Port Hedland. A man crouches behind the child, supporting him
Land based fishing in Port Hedland

Land-Based Fishing Spots

Port Hedland has strong land-based fishing options, many within easy reach of town and suitable for casual anglers through to experienced fishos.

Key spots include:

A standout feature is the purpose-built, dual-level, wheelchair-accessible fishing platform at the Spoilbank Marina. This all-abilities structure sits alongside installed reef balls, which create habitat and attract species such as mangrove jack, cod and coral trout—making it one of the most accessible and productive land-based fishing locations in town.

A woman in a boat holding a freshly caught Red Emporer
Offshore fishing in Port Hedland
A woman in a boat holding a freshly caught Bluebone fish, in the waters off Port Hedland
Offshore fishing in Port Hedland

Offshore & Blue Water Fishing

Offshore waters around Port Hedland deliver classic Pilbara reef and pelagic fishing, with productive grounds not far from shore depending on conditions.

Common offshore species include:

  • Spanish mackerel
  • Tuna
  • Red emperor
  • Coral trout
  • Snapper
  • Rankin cod

While billfish are less frequently encountered here than further north, they can still appear offshore during the right seasonal and ocean conditions.

Boat access is available via ramps at Richardson Street near the town centre and on Finucane Island, providing straightforward access to offshore waters.

New Reef Development

A major future enhancement to local fishing is the planned Port Hedland Reef, which will introduce new artificial reef structures in around 20 metres of water offshore. This project is expected to significantly expand habitat for key recreational species including coral trout, Rankin cod, red emperor and Spanish mackerel, further strengthening Port Hedland’s reputation as a fishing destination.

Images courtesy of Port Hedland Game Fishing Club