Best tide times for kayak fishing near Leith, TAS

Kayak Fishing in Leith, TAS: A Comprehensive Guide

Located on the picturesque north-west coast of Tasmania, Leith offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities. To maximize your catch, it’s crucial to understand the best tide times, fishing seasons, and essential gear, all while prioritizing safety.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Leith:

Peak Fishing Tides:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 1-2 hours after low tide, ideal for targeting species like Australian salmon, mulloway, and flathead as they move into shallower waters.
Outgoing Tide (Falling): 1-2 hours after high tide, perfect for catching species such as trevally, garfish, and squid as they congregate in areas with moving water.

Avoid: Strong tidal flows during the peak of high and low tide, as they can make paddling challenging and reduce fish activity.

Fishing Seasons in Leith, TAS:

Summer (December to February): Warm waters attract species like squid, garfish, and Australian salmon.

Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November): These shoulder seasons are ideal for mulloway, flathead, and trevally, with comfortable weather conditions.

Winter (June to August): For the more adventurous, winter offers a chance to catch species like cod and larger squid, but be prepared for cold and potentially rough conditions.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Leith:

Rods and Reels: Medium to light action outfits suitable for species up to 5kg. Use reels with a good drag system loaded with at least 150m of 10-15lb braid.

Lures and Baits:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead and mulloway.
Small metal jigs and squid jigs for Australian salmon and squid.
Use bait (e.g., bluebait, prawns) for a more relaxing, catch-all approach.

Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is equipped with rod holders, a storage hatch for gear, and a paddle leash. Consider a kayak with a rudder or pedal drive for easier maneuverability.

Safety First:

Weather and Sea Conditions: Always check forecasts before heading out. Leith’s coast can be unpredictable, so be prepared to return to shore if conditions deteriorate.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Wear a properly fitted PFD at all times while on the water.

Visibility and Lighting: Use high-visibility clothing or flags during the day. If fishing at dawn, dusk, or night, ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights.

Communication: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a Satellite Phone, especially when venturing further offshore.

First Aid and Emergency Kit: Always on board, including supplies for common injuries and a basic toolkit.

Before You Launch:

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

Respect the marine environment and practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve Leith’s rich aquatic biodiversity.

Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in Leith, TAS, and remember, the best fishing experiences often come from a deep respect for the environment and a keen understanding of the elements. Tight lines!