Best tide times for kayak fishing near Bellerive, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide for Bellerive, TAS

Located on the picturesque Derwent River, Bellerive offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities. To maximize your catch, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, covering the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

Incoming Tide (Rising Tide): 2 hours after low tide to 1 hour before high tide. This phase is ideal for targeting species like Australian salmon, mullet, and flathead, as baitfish are swept into the area.

Outgoing Tide (Falling Tide): 2 hours after high tide to 1 hour before low tide. Perfect for catching species like cod, snapper, and squid, as they become more active in the changing water.

Peak Fishing Times Around Bellerive:
– Early Morning: Just before sunrise, ideal for flathead and salmon.
– Late Afternoon/Early Evening: As the sun sets, great for squid and snapper.

Fishing Seasons in Bellerive, TAS:

Summer (Dec to Feb): Warm waters attract squid, snapper, and flathead.

Autumn (Mar to May): Excellent for catching Australian salmon and mackerel.

Spring (Sep to Nov): See the return of snapper and flathead, with squid still active.

Winter (Jun to Aug): Focus on cod, with some flathead and squid still present.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Bellerive:

Rod & Reel: Medium to light action, suitable for species up to 5kg.

Lures/Bait:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead.

Small jigs or squid lures for squid.

Live or frozen bait (e.g., pilchards) for snapper and cod.

Kayak Equipment:

Anchor or drag chain to manage drift.

Storage for gear, including a first-aid kit.

Paddle leash and comfortable seating.

Safety First:

Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitted, Australian Standards-approved life jacket.

Weather Check: Monitor forecasts before heading out. Avoid strong winds or thunderstorms.

Visibility: Wear bright or reflective clothing. Ensure your kayak is visible with lights if fishing before dawn or after dusk.

Communication: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and polarized sunglasses for comfort and to reduce glare on the water.

Fishing License: Ensure you have a valid Tasmanian recreational fishing license.

Before You Head Out:
– Check local fishing regulations for any species restrictions or size limits.
– Respect the environment and other water users.

Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in Bellerive, and remember, the best fishing experiences often result from a combination of good timing, the right gear, and a healthy respect for safety and the environment.