Best tide times for kayak fishing near Rocky Hills, TAS

Ideal Tide Phases:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 2 hours after low tide to 1 hour before high tide. This phase is ideal for targeting species like Australian Salmon, Mullet, and Flathead, as baitfish are pushed into the shore, attracting predators.

Outgoing Tide (Falling): 1 hour after high tide to 2 hours before low tide. This phase suits those after species like Snapper, Whiting, and Trevally, which often feed on the changing tide’s structure and baitfish movement.

Fishing Seasons:

Summer (Dec to Feb): Warm waters bring an abundance of Australian Salmon, Mullet, and Flathead.

Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Enjoy a mixed bag of Snapper, Whiting, Trevally, and the occasional Striped Trumpeter.

Winter (Jun to Aug): For the more adventurous, winter offers a chance to catch larger Snapper and Striped Trumpeter, though conditions can be more challenging.

Gear Tips:

Rods and Reels: Medium to light action spinning or baitcaster outfits (2-4 kg and 6-8 kg) for most species.

Lures:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for Flathead and Trevally.
Small metal jigs (e.g., 10-20g) for Australian Salmon and Mullet.
Soft or hard body diving lures for Snapper and Striped Trumpeter.

Bait: Use fresh or frozen bait like squid, pilchards, or mussels, especially for bottom dwellers like Snapper and Whiting.

Safety First:

Weather Check: Always check the forecast before heading out. Rocky Hills can experience sudden changes in weather.

Life Jacket: Wear a properly fitted, Australian Standards-approved life jacket at all times.

Visibility and Lighting:

Ensure your kayak is visible with appropriate lighting and flags, especially during early morning or late afternoon fishing.
Carry a reliable light source for navigating back to shore if you’re running late.

Communication: Inform someone of your itinerary, including where you’re going and when you plan to return. Carry a mobile phone in a waterproof case.

First Aid and Emergency Kit: Always carry a basic first aid kit and know how to use the items in it. Include a repair kit for your kayak.

Additional Tips for Rocky Hills:

Be mindful of the rocky shoreline and strong currents during certain tide phases.

Respect local regulations regarding catch limits, size restrictions, and any closed areas.

Enjoy the pristine beauty of Rocky Hills and practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve the area’s rich marine life.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable kayak fishing experience in Rocky Hills, TAS. Always remember, safety and sustainability are key to enjoying our beautiful outdoors. Tight lines!