Walpole is a small town about 430km south-southeast of Perth and 6o odd clicks from west of Denmark. Walpole township sits on the northern edge of the Walpole Inlet, surrounded by old Karri and the giant Tingle forests.
We stayed at the Rest Point caravan park on the outskirts of the Walpole township. Trees on either side of the road create a feeling of returning to the bush. As you enter the campsite, it’s clear it is being refurbished as cabins are half finished, and building materials lay about; however, to the right is the old campsite. With enough space to set up camp, trees give good coverage from the wind and rain. Kookaburras attend each site, seeming to be guardians, very well-fed and healthy birds.
Putting the boat into the water is easy enough. However, it’s advised to anchor as there are pillars on the side of the river. Getting to them in a boat bigger than ours would be an issue.
Although winter is mild and calm, the water and weather make for a delightful trip out of the bay and into open waters for the first night. Green on green and ‘you’re going upstream’, Green on red ‘seas ahead’; essential things to remember as the terrain is somewhat hilly towards the ocean. Heading out, we had more than enough depth; however, within 2 seconds, we hit a sand bar.
The campsite is empty for winter; it’s complete bliss, just the sound of nature as we sit around (whatever you call that firepit). Kangaroos come to feed on the grass at dusk and then disappear again. Strangely enough, there is a complete absence of possums, although there is a tree every two meters.
Walpole Fishing
The next morning, we pack the boat, ready for a day on the water and fishing. We wanted to travel out to sea. However, it becomes clear that it’s far too shallow. So we end up in the middle of the bay to set up lines. Not for long though, as it seems unlikely fish are about so we decide to head upstream. Apart from the occasion of another boat, it’s the wild; there are no other humans. We pass a sign that warns of obstacles and decide to head on. When we stop the boat, there is fish activity on the banks of the river. Putting out a rod or two, it is clear after an hour that river fishing is slightly different from sea fishing.
After three hours and using a surf rod that was longer than the boat, not so much as a nibble. We head on back and come across a little nook in the deep river bend. We get one bite; however, that is between the three of us.
No fish caught, but the day out on the water is a pure delight. There are many different birds about, and apart from the noise from the boat, you get a pure silence. No artificial things, it would seem, for miles and nature untouched by humans. Walpole and the Nornalup Inlet is undoubtedly a place worth visiting.
Check out the Walpole tourist web page for more information.