Best tide times for kayak fishing near Seymour, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide for Seymour, TAS

Location Overview
Seymour, situated on the picturesque north-east coast of Tasmania, offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities. The area’s rugged shoreline, rocky reefs, and estuaries are home to a diverse range of species, including Australian salmon, mulloway, flathead, and various shark species.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

Peak Fishing Tides:

Changing tides: 1-2 hours either side of the tide change (both rising and falling) when fish are more active.
Low tide: Exposed reef structures and shallow waters concentrate baitfish, attracting larger predators.
High Tide: Fish the flooded estuaries and coastal areas for species like mulloway and flathead.

Tide to Avoid: Extreme high and low tides may limit fishing areas or create strong currents, making kayaking challenging.

Fishing Seasons in Seymour, TAS:

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters bring Australian salmon, shark species, and occasionally, southern bluefin tuna.

Autumn (Mar-May) and Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild temperatures make these seasons ideal for targeting mulloway, flathead, and perch.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on deeper waters for species like sharks and rays, as some fish migrate to warmer areas.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Seymour:

Rods and Reels: Medium to heavy action combos (10-20 kg) for handling larger species.

Lures:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead and mulloway.
Metal slices (e.g., Aussie salmon slayers) for Australian salmon and shark species.
Jigs (20-50g) for a variety of species over reef structures.

Bait: Use fresh baits like squid, pilchards, or bluebait for bottom dwelling species.

Safety First – Essential Precautions:

Weather and Sea Conditions: Always check forecasts before heading out. Seymour’s coast can be unforgiving; avoid kayaking during strong winds or large swells.

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

Visibility and Lighting:

Kayak Lighting: Ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights if fishing before dawn or after dusk.
High Visibility Clothing: Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility to other water users.

Communication: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a personal locator beacon (PLB/EPIRB), especially when fishing alone.

First Aid and Emergency Kit: Always have a basic kit on board, including supplies for common marine stings and injuries.

Before You Head Out:
– Ensure you have a valid Tasmanian fishing license.
– Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.
– Respect the environment and practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve Seymour’s rich marine biodiversity.

Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in Seymour, TAS! Always prioritize safety and responsible fishing practices.