Best tide times for kayak fishing near Keppel Sands, QLD

Kayak Fishing Guide for Keppel Sands, QLD

Located on the picturesque Capricorn Coast, Keppel Sands offers kayak fishers a unique opportunity to catch a variety of species in a stunning setting. To maximize your kayak fishing experience in this beautiful Queensland spot, follow our expert guide.

Ideal Tide Phases:

For Keppel Sands, the best fishing experiences are often tied to specific tide phases:

Incoming Tide (Rising Tide): Ideal for targeting species like Flathead, Whiting, and Bream as they move into the shallower waters of the sand flats and creek mouths in search of food.

Peaking High Tide: Perfect for chasing Mangrove Jack, Trevally, and Cod, which tend to congregate around structure (like rocks, reefs, and sunken logs) as the water levels rise.

Outgoing Tide (Falling Tide): Excellent for species like Mullet, Tailor, and occasionally, larger predators like Sharks and Barramundi (seasonally), as baitfish are flushed out of the creeks and flats.

Fishing Seasons:

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

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Often considered the best seasons, with mild temperatures bringing out a wide variety of species, including Flathead, Whiting, and Bream.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler waters see an increase in species like Mulloway, Tailor, and the occasional Cobia.

Gear Tips:

Rods & Reels: Medium to light action combos (2-4 kg or 4-7 lb) are versatile for most species. Spinning or baitcaster reels with a good drag system are recommended.

Lures:

Soft plastics (curly tail grubs, paddle-tails) for Flathead and Bream.

Small to medium-sized hard body lures for Trevally and Jack.

Surface lures for Tailor and Queenfish.

Bait:

Live or frozen bait like prawns, mullet, and herring for a broader range of species.

Yabbies for targeting Bream and Whiting.

Safety First:

Always Wear a Life Jacket (PFD): Ensure it’s Coast Guard approved and in good condition.

Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen with high SPF, and protective clothing.

Tide Awareness: Monitor tide times to avoid being stranded or caught in strong currents.

Weather Watch: Keep an eye on forecasts and be prepared to head back to shore at the first sign of bad weather.

Communicate: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case. Inform someone of your itinerary, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Final Tips for Keppel Sands:

Respect the environment and other water users.

Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including size limits, bag limits, and any closed seasons or areas.

Enjoy the tranquility of kayak fishing and the natural beauty of Keppel Sands.