Overview
Baldchin groper are found only along the WA coast, with the Abrolhos Islands and mid-west reefs the heartland of the fishery.
They are structure-bound wrasse that crush crustaceans and molluscs with heavy pharyngeal teeth, which is why octopus and crab baits work so well.
Like dhufish they suffer badly from barotrauma, so release weights are essential when fishing deeper reef.
Where to find them
- ▸Coral and limestone reef edges at the Abrolhos Islands.
- ▸Broken rubble ground between reef patches in 20–40 m.
- ▸Reef drop-offs off Jurien Bay, Geraldton and Kalbarri.
- ▸Isolated bommies surrounded by sand.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 6–8 kg boat rod with a soft tip.
- ▸Reel: 5000–6000 spin or small overhead.
- ▸Line: 30 lb braid with 40–60 lb fluorocarbon leader.
- ▸Terminal: paternoster with 5/0 circles, or 3/4 oz jig head with a 5" plastic.
Tips from the water
- ▸Octopus is the single best bait for baldchin.
- ▸Use a release weight — deep-caught fish will not swim down unaided.
- ▸Fish the edges of reef rather than directly over the top.
Regulations
A WA endemic with strict size and bag limits plus seasonal demersal closures. Check current rules before fishing.