Kayak Fishing Guide for Upper Burnie, TAS
Location Overview
Upper Burnie, situated on the north-west coast of Tasmania, offers a unique kayak fishing experience. The area’s mix of rocky shores, sandy beaches, and nearby islands provides a habitat for a diverse range of fish species.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:
- Peak Fishing Times:
- Incoming Tide (Rising): 2 hours after low tide, ideal for targeting species like Australian salmon, mulloway, and flathead as they move into shallower waters.
- Outgoing Tide (Falling): 2 hours after high tide, suitable for catching species such as squid, garfish, and trevally as they congregate in the changing currents.
- Secondary Fishing Times:
- Low Tide: Excellent for spotting structure and targeting species like abalone (for those with a valid permit) and rock cod.
- High Tide: Can be productive for fishing the edges of submerged reefs and islands for species like snapper and morwong.
Fishing Seasons in Upper Burnie, TAS:
- Summer (Dec to Feb): Warm waters attract species like mulloway, trevally, and squid.
- Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Optimal seasons for catching a wide variety of species, including Australian salmon, flathead, and snapper, due to the comfortable water temperatures.
- Winter (Jun to Aug): Focus on deeper waters for species like morwong, rock cod, and occasional large snapper.
Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Upper Burnie:
- Rod/Reel Combo: Medium to light action, suitable for a range of species.
- Lures/Bait:
- Soft plastics for flathead and mulloway.
- Small jigs for squid and garfish.
- Live or cut bait (e.g., pilchards, squid) for larger predators.
- Kayak Setup:
- Anchor or a quick-release system for managing tides.
- Rod holders and ample storage for gear.
Safety First:
- Check Weather and Tide Forecasts: Before heading out, ensure you’re aware of any impending weather changes or extreme tide conditions.
- Safety Gear:
- Always wear a properly fitted PFD (Personal Flotation Device).
- Carry a VHF radio, first aid kit, and a basic toolkit.
- Inform someone of your itinerary, including launch and expected return times.
- Respect the Environment:
- Follow all local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.
- Practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve fish populations.
- Remove all rubbish, including discarded fishing gear.
Final Tips for a Successful Kayak Fishing Trip in Upper Burnie:
- Familiarize yourself with local fishing spots and regulations.
- Be prepared for Tasmania’s unpredictable weather.
- Respect fellow water users and the marine environment.
Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in Upper Burnie, TAS!
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