Kayak Fishing Guide for Table Cape, TAS
Located on Tasmania’s stunning north coast, Table Cape offers an exhilarating kayak fishing experience. To maximize your catch and ensure a safe paddle, follow our expert advice on ideal tide phases, fishing seasons, gear, and safety.
Ideal Tide Phases:
- Incoming Tide (Rising): Fish the outer reefs and rocky structures as the tide rises, typically 2 hours before high tide. This phase attracts species like Australian Salmon, Trevally, and Rock Cod.
- Peak High Tide: Target the cape’s shoreline, weed beds, and kelp forests for species such as Bream, Luderick, and the occasional Mulloway.
- Outgoing Tide (Falling): Focus on the reef edges and sandy drop-offs as the tide falls, usually 2 hours after high tide. This phase is ideal for catching Flathead, Flounder, and Leatherjacket.
Fishing Seasons:
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters bring an abundance of Australian Salmon, Trevally, and Mullet.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Enjoy a mixed bag of Bream, Luderick, and Flathead as the waters cool.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Brave the cooler months for a chance to catch prized species like Mulloway and large Flathead.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): As waters warm, target Australian Salmon, Trevally, and the start of the Bream season.
Gear Tips:
- Rods & Reels: Medium to light action spinning or baitcasting outfits (2-4 kg) for most species.
- Lures: Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs), metal slices (e.g., Twisties), and small diving lures for surface species.
- Bait: Use fresh bait like squid, pilchards, or mussels for bottom dwelling species.
- Terminal Tackle: Light to medium gauge hooks, swivels, and a minimum of 10 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon leader.
Safety First:
- Check Weather Forecasts: Monitor Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) updates for Table Cape before heading out.
- Paddle with a Buddy: Always fish with a partner, ensuring someone can raise an alarm in case of an emergency.
- Safety Gear:
- Wear a properly fitted PFD (Personal Flotation Device) at all times.
- Carry a VHF radio, whistle, and basic first-aid kit.
- Ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights for early morning or late evening paddles.
- Respect the Environment:
- Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.
- Practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve Table Cape’s marine ecosystem.
Before You Go:
- Obtain any necessary Tasmanian fishing licenses.
- Inspect your kayak and gear to ensure everything is in good working condition.
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a memorable and successful kayak fishing adventure at Table Cape, TAS. Tight lines!
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