Kayak Fishing Guide for Aspendale Gardens, VIC
Located on the shores of Port Phillip Bay, Aspendale Gardens offers a unique kayak fishing experience. To increase your chances of landing a beauty, follow our expert advice on tide times, fishing seasons, gear, and safety.
Best Tide Times:
For kayak fishing in Aspendale Gardens, focus on the following tide phases:
- Incoming Tide (Rising Tide) – 2 hours after low tide: Ideal for targeting species like Mulloway, Tailor, and Trevally as they hunt for baitfish in the shallow, flooded areas.
- Peaking High Tide: Perfect for catching species like Snapper, Flathead, and Whiting, which often congregate around structure (e.g., reefs, weed beds, and sunken logs) during high water.
- Outgoing Tide (Falling Tide) – 2 hours after high tide: Great for ambushing species like Garfish, Salmon, and Mullet as they school in the draining water.
Fishing Seasons:
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Target Snapper, Flathead, and Whiting during warmer months.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mulloway, Tailor, and Trevally are more active as the water cools.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on Snapper, Flathead, and the occasional Gummy Shark.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): A mixed bag of species, including Whiting, Mullet, and Garfish.
Gear Tips:
- Kayak: A stable, 3-4 meter long kayak with adequate storage for gear.
- Fishing Gear:
- Rods: Medium to heavy action, 2-3 meters long.
- Reels: Spooled with 10-20 lb monofilament or braid.
- Lures: Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs), metal slices (e.g., for Trevally), and small jigs.
- Baits: Pilchards, squid, and frozen baitfish for species like Snapper and Mulloway.
- Terminal Tackle:
- Hooks: Size 2 to 5/0, depending on target species.
- Sinkers: Light to medium weight, to avoid spooking fish in shallow water.
Safety First:
- Check the Weather: Avoid strong winds, thunderstorms, and rough seas.
- Wear a PFD (Life Jacket): A must-have when kayak fishing.
- Carry a VHF Radio or Phone: Stay connected in case of emergencies.
- Inform Someone: Let a friend or family member know your fishing plan, including your expected return time.
- Respect the Environment: Follow local fishing regulations, handle fish gently, and minimize your ecological footprint.
Local Regulations:
Before you head out, ensure you’re familiar with Victorian fishing regulations, including:
- Recreational fishing licenses
- Bag limits and size restrictions for target species
- Any closed areas or seasonal closures in Port Phillip Bay
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the exciting world of kayak fishing in Aspendale Gardens, VIC. Tight lines!
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