Baldchin Groper illustration
Species

Baldchin Groper

Choerodon rubescens
Tier 3Eating9/10medium tackleWA
9 waypoints40–65 cm (max 90 cm) typical

Regulations

WA40 cm min · bag 2
StateSizeBag
WA40 cm min2
Closed: West Coast Demersal closure 1 Feb - 14 Mar and 15 Oct - 15 Dec

Regulations change. Always verify with the relevant state fisheries authority before fishing.

Overview: about baldchin groper

Prized WA reef fish endemic to the mid-west coast, especially the Abrolhos and Geraldton offshore reefs. Targeted with bait or jigs over coral and limestone in 20-80m. Slow-growing and tightly regulated — strict bag and size limits apply.

Biology: Baldchin Groper size, diet & habitat

Habitat
Offshore, Reef
Typical size
40–65 cm (max 90 cm)
Weight
2–6 kg (max 12 kg)
Depth range
10–100 m
Diet
molluscs, crabs, urchins, small fish
Most active
diurnal
Global range
Endemic to WA, Houtman Abrolhos to Esperance

How to target: Baldchin Groper angling strategies

Generally fished with medium tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect.

  • octopus or squid baits on a snelled rig along reef edges
  • soft plastics worked slowly along the bottom at the Abrolhos
  • whole crab baits fished hard on the reef

Best season: when to catch baldchin groper in Australia

WA
Apr-Sep (outside demersal closures)

Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions, so check recent reports before a trip.

Conservation

IUCN: Least Concern

Part of WA West Coast Demersal Scalefish suite under tight management.

Recent community catches: anglers who caught baldchin groper

No baldchin groper catches logged yet. Log one and you'll be recognised here.

Where to catch: baldchin groper fishing spots in Australia

Western Australia9

More information: baldchin groper references & sources

Log catch