Spearfisher swims over a reef, underwater with sun shining through surface.

Safety tips for spearfishers

Stay SharkSmart when spearfishing in Western Australia

Always check the SharkSmart WA app or website for shark activity — reported sightings, tagged shark detections or shark attractants — before heading out on the water.

Help other water users stay informed by reporting shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600. Public sightings are vital for authorities to provide public safety warnings that may help save peoples’ lives.

Image for Always check the SharkSmart WA app or website for shark activity — reported sightings, tagged shark detections or shark attractants — before heading out on the water.

Notification system (from infographic)

Subject / Short description

Safety tips for surfers

Check the SharkSmart WA app or website for shark activity before heading to the beach
Always spearfish with a mate
Be prepared. Have a first aid kit in case of emergency and consider first aid training
Don’t carry dead or bleeding fish, or have the fish attached to your body
Aim to kill your fish quickly — bring your catch to the surface and remove from the water quickly
Have a plan with your buddy — agree on hand signals, entering and exiting the water and separation procedures
Avoid large schools of fish, dolphins, seal, sea lions and bird rookeries
Spearfish in clear water where you have good visibility
Avoid spearfishing in deep channels or areas with steep drop-offs nearby
Don’t feed, touch or provoke sharks
Stay alert of your surroundings. If you see a shark, stay calm, consider releasing your catch and leave the water
If the SLSWA helicopter hovers overhead and sounds the siren, exit the water immediately. Stay out of the water for at least an hour and check the SharkSmart WA app for sighting information
Don’t fish or clean your fish in areas where people swim

Safety

Stay safe at the beach

Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches, avoid swimming at dawn and dusk, and always check for warning signs before entering the water.

Safety Guidelines

Emergency

Report shark sightings immediately

Your quick report to Water Police on 9442 8600 can help save lives by alerting other water users to potential dangers in your area.

Report Now

Technology

Advanced monitoring systems

WA uses satellite tags, drone surveillance, and acoustic receivers to track shark movements and provide early warnings to beachgoers.

Explore Technology

Safety tools

Beach Emergency Numbers

SharkSmart WA App

Warning towers

Beach and aerial surveillance

Help other water users stay informed by reporting shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600.

Public sightings are vital for authorities to provide public safety warnings that may help save peoples’ lives.

Report Now

Image for Help other water users stay informed by reporting shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600.

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Introduction

Always check the SharkSmart WA app or website for shark activity — reported sightings, tagged shark detections or shark attractants — before heading out on the water.

Notification systems

Safety tips for surfers