Located on the shores of Port Phillip Bay, Sandringham offers kayak anglers a unique fishing experience with a mix of species to target. To maximize your chances of landing a beauty, timing is everything. Here’s your comprehensive guide to kayak fishing in Sandringham, covering the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.
Incoming Tide (Rising): Usually the most productive for kayak fishing in Sandringham. As the tide rises, fish are more likely to move into the shallow waters and structure (e.g., reefs, weed beds, and sunken logs) in search of food. This phase is particularly good for targeting species like Flathead, Whiting, and Mullet.
Peak High Tide: This can be an excellent time to target species that congregate around structure, such as Snapper and Mulloway, especially near submerged rocks or the Sandringham Harbour walls.
Avoid: Strong outgoing tides can make paddling back to shore challenging, especially for less experienced kayakers. If you must fish on an outgoing tide, be mindful of your energy levels and the distance to shore.
Summer (Dec to Feb): Ideal for Whiting, Flathead, and Mullet. Warm waters also attract species like Garfish and the occasional Snapper.
Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): These shoulder seasons are prime for Snapper and Mulloway, as the water temperatures are more to their liking.
Winter (Jun to Aug): While colder, winter can still yield Flathead and Whiting, especially on warmer days.
Lures: Soft plastics for Flathead, small jigs or paternoster rigs for Whiting, and metal jigs or squid imitations for Snapper.
Baits: Use fresh bait like pipis, squid, or pilchards to entice a wider range of species.
Kayak Gear: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating system, adequate storage for gear, a paddle leash, and a fishing rod holder.
Always Wear a Life Jacket (PFD): A must, even if you’re a strong swimmer.
Check the Weather: Avoid fishing during strong winds or thunderstorms.
Visibility: Wear bright clothing to remain visible to other water users.
Communicate: Inform someone of your fishing plan, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Lights: If planning to fish at dawn or dusk, ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights.
Respect the Environment: Follow local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve fish populations.
Local Knowledge: Consider consulting with local tackle shops or joining a kayak fishing community to gain more insights into the area’s hotspots and seasonal variations.
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable kayak fishing experience in Sandringham, VIC. Remember, safety and sustainability are key to preserving the beauty of our waters and the sport we love. Tight lines!
Affiliate Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, We earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps us keep this site running—thank you!
