Best tide times for kayak fishing near Cape Portland, TAS

Kayak Fishing in George Town, TAS: A Comprehensive Guide

Sitting at the mouth of the Tamar River on Tasmania’s north coast, George Town offers kayak anglers a mix of estuary, river, and coastal fishing opportunities. To maximize your catch, it’s essential to understand the best tide times, fishing seasons, and to be well-prepared with the right gear and safety measures.

Best Tide Times for Kayak Fishing in George Town, TAS

Peak Fishing Tides: The tidal movements around George Town significantly influence fish behavior. For kayak fishing, aim for:

Incoming Tide (Rising): Rising tides push baitfish into the estuary, attracting flathead, bream, and Australian salmon. The first two hours of the incoming tide are particularly productive.

Outgoing Tide (Falling): The last few hours of the outgoing tide can also fire up predatory species along sandbars, drop-offs, and channels.

Tide Phases to Avoid for Kayak Fishing:

Dead Low and High Tide: These slack tide phases often see reduced fish activity. Use this downtime for relocating or changing tactics.

Fishing Seasons in George Town, TAS

Year-Round Species: Flathead, bream, and squid can be caught year-round in the Tamar estuary and surrounding waters.

Seasonal Highlights:

Summer (Dec to Feb): Peak action for flathead, squid, and Australian salmon along the coast.

Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Ideal seasons for bream, trevally, and estuary fishing as water temperatures moderate.

Winter (Jun to Aug): Squid fishing remains strong, and hardy bream are still available in deeper channels.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in George Town

Rod and Reel: A 2–4 kg light spin combo is ideal for targeting estuary and inshore species.

Lures and Baits:

Lures: Soft plastics and shallow diving hardbodies for bream and flathead; squid jigs for calamari.

Baits: Pilchards, prawns, and squid strips are proven performers.

Kayak Accessories:

Anchor: A small folding anchor is useful for holding your kayak near productive structure.

Storage: Dry bags and crates help keep tackle and personal gear safe from spray and rain.

Safety First for Kayak Fishing in George Town

Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Always wear an approved PFD while on the water.

Weather Awareness: North coast sea breezes can build quickly—check conditions before launching.

Visibility: Use a tall flag and wear bright clothing to stay visible to boat traffic, especially in the Tamar River.

Communication Device: Carry a mobile phone in a waterproof case or a handheld VHF radio for emergencies.

First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries.

Final Tips for a Successful Kayak Fishing Trip in George Town, TAS

Respect the Environment: Follow local fishing regulations and consider practicing catch-and-release where appropriate to sustain the fishery.

Local Knowledge: Visit local tackle shops or chat with fellow fishers to find the best seasonal spots and current bait/lure preferences.

By following these guidelines, you’ll set yourself up for a productive and safe kayak fishing experience in the beautiful waters around George Town, Tasmania.