Best tide times for kayak fishing near The Gurdies, VIC

Kayak Fishing Guide for The Gurdies, VIC

Located in the picturesque Western Port Bay, The Gurdies is a renowned hotspot for kayak fishing in Victoria, Australia. To maximize your catch, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, covering the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases:

Peak Fishing Tides:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 2 hours after low tide to 1 hour before high tide. This phase brings baitfish and predators into the area.
Outgoing Tide (Falling): 1 hour after high tide to 2 hours before low tide. Expect species like Mulloway and Trevally to be active.

Avoid: Extreme low and high tides, as they can make certain areas inaccessible or too shallow for comfortable paddling.

Fishing Seasons in The Gurdies:

Summer (Dec-Feb): Focus on species like Australian Salmon, Trevally, and Whiting.

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Prime time for Mulloway, Bream, and Estuary Perch.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Target species like Garfish, Whiting, and the occasional Mulloway.

Gear Tips:

Rod & Reel: Medium to light action spinning or baitcaster combo suitable for 1-4 kg fish.

Lures:

Soft plastics (e.g., curl tail grubs) for Bream and Mulloway.
Small metal jigs (e.g., 10-20g) for Trevally and Salmon.
Tiny jigs or bait (e.g., bloodworms) for Whiting.

Bait:

Use live or frozen bait like pilchards, squid, or garfish for larger species.
Bloodworms, pipis, or small prawns for Whiting and Bream.

Safety First:

Always Check the Weather: Before and during your trip. Western Port Bay can quickly become choppy.

Paddle with a Buddy: Safety in numbers, especially in areas with boat traffic.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Wear them at all times while on the water.

First Aid Kit & Communication Device: On-board essentials.

Navigation Lights: If planning to fish at dusk or dawn, ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights to avoid collisions.

Respect Local Regulations: Check with Victorian Fisheries Authority for any fishing closures, bag limits, and size restrictions before your trip.

Launching and On-Water Tips:

Launch Sites: Utilize public ramps at Corinella or Tooradin, depending on your tide phase and target area.

Be Mindful of Boat Traffic: Keep a safe distance from larger vessels and be prepared to yield.

Fishing Areas: Explore the mangrove edges, drop-offs, and submerged structures around The Gurdies for varied species.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’re set for a productive and safe kayak fishing adventure in The Gurdies, VIC. Always remember to handle your catch with care and practice catch-and-release fishing to conserve the marine ecosystem. Tight lines!