Best tide times for kayak fishing near Beaumaris, VIC

Kayak Fishing in Beaumaris, VIC: A Guide to Reeling in the Catch

Located on the picturesque Port Phillip Bay, Beaumaris offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. To maximize your chances of landing a prized catch, timing is everything. Here’s your comprehensive guide to kayak fishing in Beaumaris, covering ideal tide phases, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Beaumaris:

Changing Tides: The periods of changing tides, especially the last two hours of the incoming tide and the first two hours of the outgoing tide, are usually the most productive. These phases stir up baitfish, attracting larger predators.

Tide Heights: Fish the mid-to-high tide ranges (around 1.5 to 2.5 meters) for better access to structures like reefs, weed beds, and sunken logs, which are hotspots for various species.

Fishing Seasons in Beaumaris:

Summer (Dec to Feb): Target Snapper, Mulloway, and Squid near structure and in deeper waters.

Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): These shoulder seasons are excellent for Flathead, Whiting, and Garfish, often found in shallower, grassy areas.

Winter (Jun to Aug): Focus on Winter Snapper and Gummy Sharks in the deeper, more sheltered areas of the bay.

Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Beaumaris:

Rods and Reels: A medium to heavy action spinning or baitcasting combo for larger species, and a light to medium action for smaller fish.

Lures and Baits:

For Snapper and Mulloway: Soft plastics (e.g., squid or curl tail imitations), metal jigs, and pilchards.
For Flathead and Whiting: Small soft plastics, tiny metal jigs, and baits like pipis or small pieces of squid.

Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating position, adequate storage for gear, and consider adding a fish finder for locating structure and schools of bait.

Safety First:

Weather Check: Always check the forecast before heading out. Port Phillip Bay can quickly become choppy.

Visibility: Wear bright or reflective clothing to enhance visibility to other water users.

Safety Gear:

Life jacket (must be worn at all times)
VHF Radio or a reliable means of communication
First aid kit
Navigation lights for early morning or late evening fishing trips

Buddy System: Preferably fish with a buddy, and inform someone on land about your fishing plans, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Final Tips:

Respect local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.

Handle all fish gently to ensure their survival upon release.

Enjoy the serene beauty of Beaumaris while you’re out there reeling in the memories!