Best tide times for kayak fishing near Trial Harbour, TAS

Kayak Fishing Guide for Trial Harbour, TAS

Located on Tasmania’s rugged West Coast, Trial Harbour offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities amidst its pristine waters and diverse marine life. To maximize your catch and ensure a safe experience, follow this expert guide:

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

Best Tides: Fish during the changing tides, specifically the last two hours of the incoming tide and the first two hours of the outgoing tide. These periods often stimulate fish activity.

Secondary Option: If you can’t make the changing tides, the peak of the incoming tide can also be productive, as it brings baitfish into the area.

Fishing Seasons in Trial Harbour:

Peak Season (September to April): Enjoy warmer waters filled with a variety of species including Australian salmon, trevally, mulloway, and flathead.

Off-Season (May to August): While colder, these months are ideal for targeting species like cod, wrasse, and the occasional stray southern bluefin tuna (though less common in kayak fishable waters).

Gear Tips for Success:

Lures:

Soft plastics (e.g., curl tail grubs) for flathead and mulloway.
Small to medium-sized metal slices for trevally and salmon.
Jigs for cod and wrasse.

Bait:

Use fresh bait like squid, pilchards, or mussels for a more relaxed, bait-soaking approach.

Tackle:

Medium to light action rods with a spinning or baitcaster reel.
Monofilament or braided line with a minimum of 10lb breaking strain.
Carry a variety of hooks, swivels, and sinkers.

Safety First:

Weather and Sea Conditions: Always check the forecast before heading out. Trial Harbour can experience sudden changes in weather; be prepared to return to shore if conditions deteriorate.

Visibility: Wear highly visible clothing or attach reflective materials to your kayak, especially during low light conditions.

Safety Gear:

Personal Flotation Device (PFD) – must be worn at all times.
First aid kit.
VHF Radio or a reliable means of communication.
Basic toolkit and a paddle leash.

File a Float Plan: Inform someone of your itinerary, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Additional Tips for Trial Harbour:

Respect the Environment: Follow all local regulations and practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve the marine ecosystem.

Local Knowledge: If possible, engage with local fishing communities or guides for up-to-date information on hot spots and fish behavior.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding and safe kayak fishing experience in the beautiful waters of Trial Harbour, Tasmania. Tight lines!