Best tide times for kayak fishing near Thomson, VIC

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

Located on the banks of the Thomson River, near the mouth of Lake Wellington, Thomson, VIC, offers kayak anglers a unique fishing experience. To maximize your catch, it’s crucial to understand the best tide times, fishing seasons, and essential gear and safety tips.

Best Tide Times:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 2-4 hours after low tide, as baitfish are swept into the river, attracting larger species like Mulloway, Estuary Perch, and Bream.

Peak High Tide: Focus on the river’s edges, structures, and submerged logs for Luderick, Mullet, and Trevally.

Outgoing Tide (Falling): 2 hours after high tide, target the drop-offs, holes, and weed beds for Bream, Estuary Perch, and the occasional Snapper.

Fishing Seasons:

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm waters bring Mulloway, Trevally, and Estuary Perch into the system.

Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Ideal for targeting Bream, Luderick, and Mullet as waters cool or warm.

Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on deeper holes for Mulloway and Estuary Perch, which congregate in warmer pockets.

Gear Tips:

Rods & Reels: Medium to light action spin or baitcaster combos (2-4 kg) for most species.

Lures:

Soft plastics (curly tail, paddle tail) for Bream, Estuary Perch, and Mulloway.
Small metal jigs and hard-bodied lures for Trevally and Mullet.

Baits:

Live or frozen bait (prawns, pilchards, sandworms) for most species.
Use bait holders or size 2 to 6 hooks, depending on bait and target species.

Safety First:

PFD (Life Jacket): Always wear a properly fitted, Australian Standards-approved PFD.

Weather Awareness: Monitor forecasts for strong winds, thunderstorms, and changing tide conditions.

Sun Protection: Broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses.

Navigation Lights: If fishing at dawn, dusk, or night, ensure your kayak is equipped with the required navigation lights.

First Aid Kit & Communication Device: On board, in case of emergencies.

Before You Launch:

Check the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide for up-to-date size limits, bag limits, and any closed seasons.

Respect the environment and other water users, adhering to ‘catch-and-release’ practices when appropriate.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to reeling in a memorable catch while kayak fishing in Thomson, VIC. Always prioritize your safety and the sustainability of the fishery. Tight lines!