Best tide times for kayak fishing near Merewether, NSW

Kayak Fishing Guide for Merewether, NSW

Location Overview
Merewether, a suburb of Newcastle, NSW, offers an exciting kayak fishing experience with its diverse marine life and scenic coastline. The area’s reefs, rocky outcrops, and sandy bottoms attract a wide range of species.

Best Tide Times for Kayak Fishing

• Peak Fishing Tides:
  • Changing Tides: 1-2 hours either side of the tide change (low to high or high to low) for increased fish activity.
  • Low Tide: Exposes more structure, ideal for targeting species like Bream, Mulloway, and Drummer.
  • High Tide: Better for chasing Pelagic species like Australian Salmon, Tailor, and occasionally, juvenile Tuna.
• Recommended Tide Ranges:
  • For beginners or those seeking calmer conditions: 0.5-1.5 meters tide range.
  • For experienced kayakers seeking more challenge and potentially better fishing: 1.5-2.5 meters tide range.

Fishing Seasons in Merewether, NSW

• Year-Round:
  • Bream
  • Mulloway
  • Drummer
• Seasonal Highlights:
  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Australian Salmon, Tailor, and occasional Tuna.
  • Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Improved catches of Snapper and Jewfish.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Merewether

• Rods & Reels:
  • Medium to heavy action spinning or baitcaster outfits for handling larger species.
• Lures & Baits:
  • Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for Bream and Mulloway.
  • Metal slugs and spinners for Australian Salmon and Tailor.
  • Fresh baits (squid, prawns, pilchards) for Snapper and Jewfish.
• Kayak Setup:
  • Ensure your kayak is equipped with rod holders, a tackle box, and a small esky for storing catch.
  • Consider a kayak with a rudder or pedal drive for ease of maneuverability.

Safety First

• Always Wear:
  • A properly fitted life jacket (PFD).
  • Protective clothing (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
• Check Before You Go:
  • Weather and sea condition forecasts.
  • Tide times.
  • Fishing regulations (bag limits, size restrictions, any closed areas).
• Fish with a Buddy:
  • Whenever possible, for mutual assistance and shared experience.
• Carry:
  • A VHF radio or a waterproof phone case.
  • Basic first aid kit.
  • Navigation tools (compass, chart, or GPS device).

Final Tips for a Successful Kayak Fishing Trip in Merewether:

• Respect the environment and other water users.
• Practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve fish populations.
• Stay alert and enjoy the unique experience that kayak fishing in Merewether offers.

Happy Fishing!

Explore all New South Wales kayak fishing guides