Kayak Fishing Guide for East Devonport, TAS
Location Overview
East Devonport, situated on the north coast of Tasmania, offers an exciting kayak fishing experience. The waters of the Bass Strait and the Mersey River provide a diverse range of species, including flathead, trevally, Australian salmon, and mulloway.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing
- Best Tides: Changing tides, particularly the last 2 hours of the incoming tide and the first 2 hours of the outgoing tide, are ideal for kayak fishing in East Devonport. These phases often trigger feeding activity among target species.
- Tide Ranges: Opt for days with moderate tide ranges (around 2-3 meters). Extreme tide ranges can make paddling and fishing more challenging.
Fishing Seasons
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters attract Australian salmon, trevally, and flathead. Target shallow waters and weed beds.
- Autumn (Mar-May) and Spring (Sep-Nov): Excellent seasons for mulloway and larger flathead. Focus on structural elements like reefs, drop-offs, and river mouths.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Brave the cooler waters for a chance at catching larger species like mulloway and trevally, often found in deeper waters.
Gear Tips for Success
- Lures:
- Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead and mulloway.
- Small metal jigs and spinners for trevally and Australian salmon.
- Bait:
- Use fresh bait like pilchards, squid, or mussels for larger species.
- Sandworms and lures for flathead.
- Rod and Reel: A medium to light action spin outfit (2-4 kg) with a reliable drag system is versatile for most species.
- Kayak Accessories:
- Anchor or a sea anchor for managing currents.
- Paddle leash and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or EPIRB for safety.
Safety First
- Check the Weather: Forecast and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology before heading out.
- Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitting, Australian Standards-approved life jacket.
- Visibility: Use high-visibility clothing or attach reflective materials to your kayak.
- Communicate: Inform someone about your trip, including where you’re going and when you plan to return.
- First Aid and Repair Kit: Keep basic supplies on board.
Additional Local Tips
- Be mindful of local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.
- Respect the environment and other water users.
- Consider joining a local fishing group or seeking advice from tackle shops in East Devonport for up-to-the-minute fishing insights.
Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in East Devonport, TAS! Always prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to reach out to local authorities or guides for more detailed information.
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