Species
Whale Shark
Rhincodon typus
Also known as Checkerboard Shark
Tier 5ultralight tackleNSWWA
0 waypoints~6–11 cm typical
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No whale shark catches logged yet — log one and you'll be recognised here.
Where to catch
Range & spots
No mapped spots for this species yet.
This species is in the catalog but not yet linked to any mapped waypoint.
Overview: about whale shark
Gentle giant of the Indo-Pacific, encountered in NSW and WA over inshore reefs and beaches. Typically feeds on plankton and small nektonic life in shallow waters, 8-9m deep, and can be spotted while snorkelling or diving. Despite its massive size, the whale shark is a harmless filter-feeder, not an active predator, and poses no threat to anglers.
Biology: Whale Shark size, diet & habitat
- Habitat
- Beach, Inshore, Pelagic, Reef
- Typical size
- 6–11 cm (max 15 cm)
- Depth range
- 8–9 m
- Diet
- plankton including copepods, krill, chaetognaths, jellyfish, fish eggs, Christmas Island red crab larvae and small nektonic life, small squid or fish
- Global range
- Indo-Pacific
How to target: Whale Shark angling strategies
Generally fished with ultralight tackle — match gear to the conditions and the size of fish you expect. No targeting tips for whale shark yet — match your gear to the habitat and expected fish size, and check recent local reports before a trip.
Best season: when to catch whale shark in Australia
No seasonal pattern for whale shark yet. Seasons shift with water temperature and local conditions — check state fisheries advice and recent local reports before planning a trip.
Where to catch: whale shark fishing spots in Australia
No mapped spots or marks for whale shark yet. As waypoints are added that list this species, they'll appear here.