Kayak Fishing Guide: Tweed Heads South, NSW
Location Overview
Tweed Heads South, situated on the NSW-QLD border, offers an exciting kayak fishing experience. The area’s diverse waters, including the Tweed River, Terranora Creek, and the Pacific Ocean, are home to a wide range of species.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:
- Changing Tides (Peak Fishing Time): 1-2 hours either side of the tide change (low to high or high to low). This period often triggers feeding frenzies among target species.
- Incoming Tide (Fishing for Bream, Mulloway, and Flathead): As the tide rises, these species move into the shallower, structured areas of the Tweed River and Terranora Creek.
- Outgoing Tide (Fishing for Jewfish, Tailor, and Trevally): As the tide falls, target the river mouths, creek entrances, and ocean rock formations for these species.
Fishing Seasons in Tweed Heads South:
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm water species like Trevally, Tailor, and Mulloway are active.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Bream, Jewfish, and Flathead are more prevalent as waters cool.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Target Bream, Mulloway, and occasional cold-water visitors like Salmon.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): A mixed bag of species as waters warm up, including Trevally and Tailor.
Gear Tips:
- Rods & Reels: Medium to light action spinning or baitcaster outfits (2-4 kg) for most species.
- Lures:
- Soft plastics (curly tail grubs, shrimp imitations) for Bream, Flathead, and Mulloway.
- Small metal lures (20-40g) for Trevally, Tailor, and Jewfish.
- Bait: Use live or frozen bait like prawns, mullet, or squid for a wider range of species.
Safety First:
- Always Wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device): A must-have for kayak fishing.
- Check Weather and Tide Forecasts: Before heading out, to avoid adverse conditions.
- Carry Communication Devices: Mobile phone in a waterproof pouch and/or a VHF radio.
- File a Float Plan: Inform someone about your fishing trip, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.
- Respect the Environment: Follow local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve fish populations.
Additional Tips for Tweed Heads South:
- Be mindful of the border zone regulations if you plan to fish in the Queensland side of the Tweed River.
- Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales (in season), and maintain a safe distance.
- Join local fishing groups or seek guidance from experienced kayak fishing guides for more tailored advice and hidden gems in the area.
Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in Tweed Heads South! Remember, safety and sustainability are key to a great experience.
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