Kayak Fishing in Kettering, TAS: A Guide to Reeling in the Best Catches
Located on the picturesque shores of Tasmania, Kettering offers kayak anglers a tranquil and productive fishing experience. To maximize your chances of landing a prized catch, follow this expert guide on the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Kettering:
- Changing Tides: The hour leading up to and after the tide change (both low to high and high to low) is often the most productive. Fish are more active during these periods as bait is stirred up, making them easier prey.
- Flood Tide (Rising): Excellent for targeting species like Australian salmon, mullet, and flathead as they move into the shallower, coastal areas in search of food.
- Ebb Tide (Falling): Ideal for catching species such as squid, snapper, and morwong, which are often found in the deeper channels and structures exposed during the falling tide.
Fishing Seasons in Kettering, TAS:
- Summer (Dec to Feb): Peak season for squid, snapper, and flathead.
- Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Excellent for Australian salmon and morwong.
- Winter (Jun to Aug): Focus on species like morwong and the occasional snapper in the deeper waters.
Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Kettering:
- Rod and Reel: A medium to light action spinning outfit (2-4 kg) suitable for a variety of species.
- Lures and Baits:
- Soft plastics (curly tail grubs, paddle-tail lures) for flathead and morwong.
- Small jigs and squid lures for squid.
- Metal slices or small hard-body lures for Australian salmon.
- Baitfish (pilchards, anchovies) for snapper.
- Kayak Accessories: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating system, storage for gear, a paddle leash, and a sounding device (depth sounder) to locate underwater structures.
Safety First:
- Weather and Tide Forecasts: Always check the latest forecasts before heading out.
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Wear a properly fitted PFD at all times while on the water.
- Visibility: Use a flag or high-visibility vest to increase your visibility to other watercraft.
- Communication: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a mobile phone in a waterproof bag.
- Sun Protection: Tasmanian sun can be fierce; pack sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses.
- First Aid Kit: A basic kit should always be part of your kayak’s emergency supplies.
Before You Launch:
- Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.
- Respect the environment and other water users, practicing catch-and-release fishing when appropriate.
By adhering to these guidelines, kayak anglers can look forward to a rewarding and safe fishing experience in the beautiful waters off Kettering, Tasmania. Tight lines!
Explore all Tasmania kayak fishing guides
