Best tide times for kayak fishing near Mount Stuart, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide for Mount Stuart, TAS

Located near Hobart, Mount Stuart offers a unique kayak fishing experience amidst Tasmania’s stunning coastline. Here’s your comprehensive guide to make the most of your kayak fishing adventure in these waters.

Ideal Tide Phases:

Best Fishing Tides: The changing tides significantly impact fish activity. For Mount Stuart, aim for:

Incoming Tide (Rising Tide): Ideal for targeting species like flathead, flounder, and mullet as they feed on baitfish and crustaceans swept in by the tide.

Peak High Tide: Great for accessing shallow, normally inaccessible areas where species like Australian salmon and trevally might be lurking.

Early Outgoing Tide (Falling Tide): Excellent for catching species like cod, snapper, and squid as they become more active in the moving water.

Fishing Seasons:

Year-Round: Flathead, Mullet, and occasionally, smaller species of cod.

Spring to Early Summer (Sept to Dec): Peak season for Australian Salmon and Trevally.

Late Summer to Autumn (Feb to May): Ideal for Snapper and Squid.

Gear Tips:

Rods/Reels: Medium to light action rods with reels capable of holding at least 150 meters of 10-15 kg line. Spinning or baitcaster setups work well.

Lures/Bait:

Lures: Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead, small metal slices for salmon and trevally, and squid jigs for… well, squid!

Bait: Prawns, mussels, and small fish (like pilchards) for a variety of species.

Kayak Accessories:

Anchors: A compact, lightweight anchor to hold position in currents.

Storage: Waterproof hatches for gear and a cooler for your catch.

Safety Gear: Always include a PFD (Personal Flotation Device), flares, and a communication device.

Safety First:

Weather Check: Always check the forecast before heading out. Tasmanian weather can turn quickly.

Visibility: Wear high-visibility clothing, especially in low light conditions.

Company: Preferably fish with a buddy. If solo, inform someone of your itinerary.

Respect the Environment: Follow all local regulations, handle fish gently to encourage catch-and-release survival rates, and take all trash with you.

Local Regulations:

Licenses: Ensure you have a valid Tasmanian Recreational Sea Fishing License.

Catch Limits and Size Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the latest regulations for each species to avoid fines and help conserve fish stocks.