Best tide times for kayak fishing near Frankston North, VIC

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

Located on the shores of Port Phillip Bay, Frankston North offers kayak anglers a unique fishing experience with an abundance of species to target. To maximize your catch, it’s crucial to understand the best tide times, fishing seasons, and to be equipped with the right gear while prioritizing safety.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Frankston North:

Changing Tides: The period of changing tides, especially during the peak of the tide cycle (about 1-2 hours into the incoming or outgoing tide), is often when fish are most active.

Incoming Tide: Preferred for targeting species like snapper, flathead, and whiting as they move into the shallower waters of the bay to feed.

Outgoing Tide: Ideal for mulloway and occasional catches of larger predators as they hunt in the channels and deeper waters.

Fishing Seasons in Frankston North:

Spring (Sept to Nov): Snapper start to move into the bay, and whiting are plentiful.

Summer (Dec to Feb): Warm waters attract a variety of species including flathead, snapper, and occasional kingfish.

Autumn (Mar to May): Mulloway are more active, and snapper are still present in good numbers.

Winter (Jun to Aug): Target leatherjackets, gurnard, and the occasional snapper for those braving the cooler conditions.

Gear Tips:

Rods & Reels: Light to medium action combos suitable for bream to snapper-sized fish.

Lures/Bait:

Soft plastics and small jigs for flathead and snapper.

Small hooks with baits like pipis, squid, or pilchards for whiting and mulloway.

Consider environmentally friendly options.

Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable and stable platform for fishing. A small anchor or a kayak sea anchor can be invaluable for managing your position in currents.

Safety First:

Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

Communication: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case.

Visibility: Use a flag or high-visibility gear to ensure you’re seen by other watercraft.

Weather: Check forecasts before heading out and be prepared to return to shore if conditions deteriorate.

Fishing Licenses: Ensure you have a valid Victorian Recreational Fishing License.

Additional Tips for Frankston North:

Launch Points: Utilize the Frankston Foreshore or the Kananook Creek Boat Ramp for easier access to the bay.

Respect the Environment: Follow all local regulations, handle fish gently to promote catch-and-release practices, and remove all trash from the water.

By aligning your kayak fishing trips in Frankston North with these guidelines, you’ll not only increase your chances of landing a memorable catch but also do so in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Happy paddling and fishing!