Best tide times for kayak fishing near Tinderbox, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide: Tinderbox, TAS

Located on the southeastern coast of Tasmania, Tinderbox offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities amidst its rugged coastline and pristine waters. To maximize your catch, follow this expert guide tailored for kayak fishing in Tinderbox, TAS.

Ideal Tide Phases:

Peak Fishing Tides: The changing tides around Tinderbox significantly impact fish activity. For kayak fishing, target the following tide phases:

Low Tide to Rising Tide (First 2 hours): Perfect for targeting species like Australian salmon, mullet, and flathead as they feed in the shallower, exposed areas.

Peak High Tide: Ideal for chasing mackerel, trevally, and the occasional striped trumpeter near submerged reefs and structures.

Falling Tide (Last 2 hours): Great for catching species that move into the deeper channels as the water recedes, such as squid, garfish, and sometimes even a stray snapper.

Fishing Seasons:

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters attract pelagic species like mackerel and tuna. Squid are also abundant.

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Considered the best seasons for a diverse catch, including salmon, flathead, and the occasional snapper.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on deeper waters for species like morwong, ling, and the occasional striped trumpeter.

Gear Tips:

Rods & Reels: Medium to light action combos (2-4 kg or 4-6 lb) are versatile for most species. For pelagics, step up to heavier action (6-10 kg or 12-20 lb).

Lures & Baits:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for flathead and morwong.

Small metals (e.g., slugs, slices) for mackerel and tuna.

Squid jigs for… well, squid!

Baitfish (e.g., bluebait, whitebait) for a broader appeal.

Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is fitted with rod holders, a storage compartment for gear, and consider a fish finder for locating schools and underwater structures.

Safety First:

Weather Check: Always check the forecast before heading out. Tinderbox can be exposed to harsh weather; be prepared to return to shore if conditions deteriorate.

Safety Gear: Carry a VHF radio, EPIRB (if venturing far off shore), first aid kit, and wear a properly fitting life jacket.

Visibility: Use high-visibility clothing or flags to ensure you’re seen by other watercraft.

Buddy System: Whenever possible, fish with a buddy for mutual assistance in case of emergencies.

Final Tips:

Respect the Environment: Follow catch-and-release guidelines for sustainable fishing and handle all caught fish with care.

Local Knowledge: Engage with local fishing communities or guides for up-to-date information on hot spots and species migrations.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the exciting world of kayak fishing in Tinderbox, TAS, and make the most of your time on the water. Tight lines!