Best tide times for kayak fishing near Lewisham, TAS

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

Located on the picturesque shores of the Derwent River, Lewisham, Tasmania, offers kayak anglers a unique fishing experience. To maximize your chances of landing a prized 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 in Lewisham:

Best Tides: The changing tides in Lewisham significantly impact fish activity. For kayak fishing, aim for:

Incoming Tide (Rising): Fish are more active as baitfish and crustaceans are swept into the area, making it ideal for targeting species like Australian Salmon, Mullet, and Flathead.

Peak High Tide: This phase is excellent for exploring the river’s edges, estuaries, and weed beds, where fish often seek refuge. Look out for Trevally, Mulloway, and the occasional Striped Trumpeter.

Tide to Avoid: Try to avoid the Outgoing Tide (Falling) during strong winds or large tidal ranges, as it can make paddling back to shore challenging and reduce fish activity in the area.

Fishing Seasons in Lewisham, TAS:

Year-Round Species: Flathead, Mullet, and Australian Salmon are present throughout the year.

Seasonal Highlights:

Spring (Sept to Nov): Trevally and Mulloway start to appear in greater numbers.

Summer (Dec to Feb): Peak season for Striped Trumpeter and larger Trevally.

Autumn (Mar to May): Excellent for targeting Mulloway and late-season Trumpeter.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Lewisham:

Rods and Reels: Medium to light action spinning or baitcasting setups for targeting the aforementioned species.

Lures and Baits:

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

Small metal jigs and hard-bodied lures for Australian Salmon and Mulloway.

Live or frozen baits (e.g., prawns, whitebait) for a broader species range.

Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating system, ample storage for gear, and consider a pedal drive for hands-free fishing.

Safety First:

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Always wear a properly fitted PFD.

Weather and Tide Awareness: Monitor forecasts and tide times to avoid adverse conditions.

Visibility and Lighting: Use high-visibility clothing during dawn/dusk fishing trips. Consider additional lights on your kayak for increased visibility to other watercraft.

First Aid and Emergency Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit and a means of communication (e.g., waterproof radio, phone in a dry bag).

Before You Launch:

Check the latest fishing regulations for bag limits, size restrictions, and any closed areas.

Respect the environment and other water users, practicing catch-and-release fishing where possible to conserve Lewisham’s marine biodiversity.

With this guide, you’re well on your way to enjoying a successful and safe kayak fishing experience in Lewisham, TAS. Tight lines!