Best tide times for kayak fishing near Falmouth, TAS

Kayak Fishing in Falmouth, TAS: A Guide to Reeling in the Catch

Located on the stunning East Coast of Tasmania, Falmouth offers kayak anglers a unique fishing experience amidst its picturesque coastline. To increase your chances of landing a prized catch, follow our expert guide on the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

Changing Tides: The hour leading up to and after the turn of the tide (both low to high and high to low) often triggers feeding frenzies among fish, making these periods optimal for fishing.

Incoming Tide (Rising): particularly favorable for targeting species like Australian Salmon, Mullet, and Flathead as they move into shallower waters in search of food.

Early Morning and Late Afternoon: Regardless of the tide phase, these times usually offer the best fishing conditions due to the calmer seas and increased fish activity.

Fishing Seasons in Falmouth, TAS:

Summer (Dec to Feb): Ideal for catching Australian Salmon, Mullet, and the occasional Striped Trumpeter.

Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Excellent seasons for Flathead, with the waters being less crowded than in summer.

Winter (Jun to Aug): For the more experienced and equipped kayak anglers, winter can offer good catches of larger fish like Striped Trumpeter and occasional visits from Southern Bluefin Tuna, though conditions can be challenging.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Falmouth:

Rods and Reels: Medium to light action spinning or baitcaster combos suitable for species mentioned.

Lures and Baits:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for Flathead.

Small metal slices or spinners for Australian Salmon and Mullet.

Live or frozen bait (e.g., squid, pilchards) for larger species.

Paddling and Anchoring Gear: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a reliable anchor system and consider a paddling mirror for stealthier approaches.

Safety First:

Weather and Sea Conditions: Always check forecasts beforehand. Falmouth’s coastline can become hazardous quickly.

Visibility and Lighting: Use high-visibility clothing and ensure your kayak is equipped with appropriate navigation lights for early morning or late evening fishing trips.

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Satellite Phone: Especially crucial for solo trips or during less favorable weather conditions.

First Aid Kit and Basic Toolkit: On board at all times.

Notify Someone: Of your trip plan, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Final Tips for a Successful Kayak Fishing Trip in Falmouth, TAS:

Respect local marine life and adhere to Tasmanian fishing regulations.

Practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve fish populations.

Join local fishing communities or seek guides for more in-depth knowledge of the area.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a productive and safe kayak fishing experience in the beautiful waters off Falmouth, Tasmania. Tight lines!