Best tide times for kayak fishing near Emu Heights, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide for Emu Heights, TAS

Located on the picturesque Derwent River, Emu Heights 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:

Peak Fishing Tides:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 1-2 hours after low tide. Perfect for targeting species like Australian salmon, mulloway, and flathead as they move into shallower waters.
Outgoing Tide (Falling): 1-2 hours after high tide. Ideal for catching species such as squid, garfish, and the occasional striped trumpeter as they congregate in deeper channels.

Avoid: Strong tidal flows during peak high and low tide changes, as they can make paddling and fishing challenging.

Fishing Seasons in Emu Heights, TAS:

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters attract a wide variety of species including Australian salmon, flathead, and squid.

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Cooler waters bring in mulloway, striped trumpeter, and occasionally, southern bluefin tuna.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on deeper waters for species like squid, cod, and the odd mulloway.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Emu Heights:

Rods & Reels: Medium to light action combos suitable for 1-6 kg fish.

Lures:

Soft plastics (curly tail grubs, shrimp imitations) for flathead and mulloway.
Small jigs and squid jigs for squid and garfish.
Metal slices for Australian salmon.

Bait: Use fresh or frozen baits like squid, fish fillets, or prawns for a variety of species.

Kayak Setup:

Rod holders for hands-free paddling.
Anchor or drag chain for stabilizing in current.
Storage for gear, keeping your kayak clutter-free.

Safety First:

PFD (Personal Flotation Device): Always wear a properly fitted life jacket.

Weather Check: Monitor forecasts for wind, thunderstorms, and temperature fluctuations.

Visibility:

Wear bright, reflective clothing.
Utilize a kayak light if fishing at dawn, dusk, or night.

Communication:

Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case.
Inform someone of your itinerary, including launch and expected return times.

First Aid Kit: A basic kit should always be on board, including supplies for cuts, burns, and potential allergic reactions.

Before You Launch:

Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits, size restrictions, and any closed areas.

Respect the environment and other water users, adhering to “catch and release” practices when appropriate.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the rewarding experience of kayak fishing in Emu Heights, TAS, while ensuring a safe and sustainable interaction with the marine environment. Tight lines!