WA marron fishing season to begin

The four-week marron fishing season begins this weekend in Western Australia and thousands of people are expected to turn out to dams and rivers to catch the unique freshwater crayfish.

The short season and other management controls, including possession and size limits, ensure the sustainability of the highly valued recreational fishery.

Acting compliance manager of the southern region Steve Embling said some out-of-season offences had already been detected during pre-season patrols.

He said Fisheries officers found a 36-year-old Collie man last Friday night near the Harvey Dam with 68 marron, 38 of which were undersize.

The man faces several potential charges, including possessing marron out of season and using illegal gear, which carry a maximum fine of $5000 plus a mandatory penalty of $50 per marron for each offence.

"We remind fishers to use the correct fishing gear and that traps of any kind are illegal," Mr Embling said.

"Fishers need to keep their personal safety in mind at all times and to be especially alert in regard to the bushfire risks at this time of year."

The season begins on Sunday at noon.