Marine Industry
Commercial fisheries such as the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery, Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery and Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery deliver catches valued around $40-50 million annually and have operated sustainably since the mid-1960s.
Other commercial sectors include the region’s and Australia’s largest blue swimmer crab fishery as well as the demersal scalefish line fishery, which targets premium species such as pink snapper, red emperor and cod.
Aquaculture in the Gascoyne is a small industry, primarily focused on blacklip oysters (Pinctada margaritifera). The sector also produces aquarium species, such as coral and live rock. Recently, trials of edible rock oysters have been conducted in the region, though results have been mixed.
With its rich natural asset base, advanced fisheries management practices, and room to diversify into aquaculture, the Gascoyne’s fishing and marine-foods industry offers a resilient platform for investment, job creation and growth in the region’s coastal communities.
The Gascoyne is also home to two artificial reefs, one in Exmouth and one in Carnarvon.
The Marine Statistics You Should Know
Blue swimmer crab industry in Australia
industry is the largest in WA
Artificial reefs
UNESCO World Heritage sites
Species of fish targeted by commercial fishing
Highlight core benefits
