Kayak Fishing Guide: Chain of Lagoons, TAS
Located on Tasmania’s stunning East Coast, Chain of Lagoons offers a unique kayak fishing experience amidst its serene and interconnected waterways. To maximize your catch, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, covering the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and vital safety tips.
Ideal Tide Phases:
- Changing Tides: The most productive times for kayak fishing in Chain of Lagoons are during the changing tides, especially the last two hours of the rising tide and the first two hours of the falling tide. These phases concentrate baitfish, making them easier prey for your target species.
- Specific Focus:
- Rising Tide: Excellent for targeting species like flathead and bream as they move into the shallower areas to feed.
- Falling Tide: Ideal for catching species like mulloway and trevally as they congregate around the drain points and river mouths.
Fishing Seasons:
- Peak Season (September to April): Warm waters attract a variety of species, with flathead, bream, and mulloway being the most common catches.
- Off-Season (May to August): While less popular, the cooler months can still yield decent catches of bream and the occasional mulloway, particularly on warmer days.
Gear Tips:
- Lures:
- Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead and bream.
- Hard body lures (e.g., shallow divers) for mulloway and trevally.
- Baits:
- Fresh baitfish or squid for larger predators.
- Prawns or crabs for bream.
- Rod & Reel: A medium to light action spinning outfit (2-4 kg) is versatile for the variety of species found here.
- Kayak Accessories:
- Paddle leash and a comfortable PFD.
- A small anchor or drag chain for positioning in currents.
Safety First:
- Weather Check: Always check the forecast before heading out. Chain of Lagoons can become hazardous with strong winds and thunderstorms.
- Visibility: Wear high-visibility clothing to ensure you’re seen by other watercraft.
- Safety Gear:
- Carry a VHF radio or a waterproof phone case.
- A basic first aid kit and a repair kit for your kayak.
- Buddy System: Whenever possible, fish with a buddy for mutual assistance and shared experience.
- Respect the Environment: Follow all local regulations, handle fish gently to promote catch-and-release survival rates, and take all rubbish with you when you leave.
Final Tips for Chain of Lagoons:
- Explore: Don’t be afraid to paddle into the smaller lagoons and inlets, as they often hold surprises.
- Patience: Sometimes, the best catches come to those who wait, especially in the more secluded areas.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Chain of Lagoons is as much about the experience as it is about the fishing. Take in the beauty of your surroundings.
Happy Fishing!
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