Best tide times for kayak fishing near Diamond Beach, NSW

Kayak Fishing Guide for Diamond Beach, NSW

Located on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, Diamond Beach offers an exceptional kayak fishing experience. To maximize your catch and ensure a safe paddle, follow our expert guide.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 1-2 hours after low tide, perfect for targeting species like:

Bream, Mulloway, and Whiting in the beach’s gutters and tidal flats.
Flathead and Trevally in the shallow, sandy areas.

Peaking High Tide: Suitable for catching:

Snapper, Pearl Perch, and occasional Cobia around the reef structures just offshore.

Outgoing Tide (Falling): 1-2 hours after high tide, ideal for:

Chasing Beach Salmon, Tailor, and sometimes Mackerel in the surf zone.

Fishing Seasons:

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters attract species like Trevally, Mackerel, and Tuna.

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Enjoy a mix of summer and winter species, with an abundance of Bream, Mulloway, and Snapper.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Target cooler-water species like Leatherjackets, Snapper, and the occasional Cobia.

Gear Tips:

Rods & Reels: Medium to light action combos (2-4 kg) for most species. Heavier setups (6-10 kg) for larger predators.

Lures & Baits:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) and small jigs for Flathead and Trevally.
Metal lures (e.g., slices, spoons) for Beach Salmon and Tailor.
Live or frozen baits (e.g., prawns, pilchards) for Bream, Mulloway, and Snapper.

Kayak Accessories:

Anchor: A compact, folding anchor to secure your kayak in position.
Storage: Waterproof hatches for gear protection.

Safety First:

Weather & Sea Conditions: Always check forecasts before heading out. Avoid strong winds and rough seas.

Paddle Safe:

Wear a properly fitted PFD (Personal Flotation Device) at all times.
Carry a VHF radio or a waterproof phone case for emergencies.
Inform someone about your itinerary, including launch and return times.

Responsible Fishing:

Familiarize yourself with NSW bag limits and size restrictions.
Handle catches gently to ensure survival upon release.

Launch Points:

Diamond Beach Access: A convenient, vehicle-accessible point near the surf club.

Alternative: For more secluded spots, consider launching from nearby Hallidays Point or Black Head.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the rich fishing grounds of Diamond Beach from your kayak. Always prioritize safety, and may your lines be tight!