Best tide times for kayak fishing near Coles Bay, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide for Coles Bay, Tasmania

Location Overview
Coles Bay, situated on the east coast of Tasmania, offers a unique kayak fishing experience amidst the stunning scenery of Freycinet National Park. The bay’s diverse marine life, including flathead, trevally, mulloway, and even occasional striped marlin, makes it an angler’s paradise.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing

Changing Tides: The most productive fishing times in Coles Bay are during the changing tides, especially the last two hours of the rising tide and the first two hours of the falling tide. These periods stimulate fish activity as baitfish and crustaceans are flushed in and out of the bay’s many inlets and around the rocky shores.

Low Tide: For targeting species like flathead and flounder, fishing the shallow, sandy areas exposed during low tide can be very effective. Use lures or bait that can reach the bottom or just above it.

High Tide: High tide is ideal for exploring the bay’s many rocky outcrops and reefs, which attract species like trevally and mulloway. Look for structural elements like drop-offs, weed beds, and sunken logs.

Fishing Seasons

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters attract pelagic species like striped marlin and mahi-mahi, although these are less common. Trevally and mulloway are more active.

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): These shoulder seasons offer the best all-round fishing, with mild weather and a wide variety of species active.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on species like flathead, flounder, and the occasional large mulloway that venture closer to shore.

Gear Tips

Lures: Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs), metal slices (for trevally), and diving lures (for mulloway) are highly effective.

Bait: Use fresh bait like squid, pilchards, or mussels for bottom fishing or when targeting larger species.

Rod & Reel: A medium to heavy action spinning or baitcasting combo, capable of handling lines up to 15kg, is recommended.

Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating system, ample storage for gear, a paddle leash, and a fishing rod holder.

Safety First

Weather Check: Always check the latest forecast before heading out. Coles Bay can experience sudden weather changes.

Visibility: Wear high-visibility clothing, especially in low light conditions.

Safety Gear: Carry a VHF radio, EPIRB (if venturing far from shore), first aid kit, and a repair kit for your kayak.

Buddy System: Whenever possible, fish with a buddy for added safety.

Respect the Environment: Adhere to all local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve the marine ecosystem.

Before You Head Out
Ensure you have the necessary Tasmanian fishing licenses and are aware of any local fishing restrictions or closures. Enjoy the serene beauty of Coles Bay while reeling in your catch!