Best tide times for kayak fishing near Waterways, VIC

Kayak Fishing in Waterways, VIC: A Comprehensive Guide

Located in the picturesque southeastern suburbs of Melbourne, Waterways, VIC, offers an exciting kayak fishing experience. To increase your chances of landing a prized catch, we’ve put together this guide, covering the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

Peak Fishing Tides:

Incoming Tide (Rising): 2 hours after low tide to 1 hour before high tide. Perfect for targeting species like Mulloway, Tailor, and Bream as they feed on baitfish in the shallowing waters.
Outgoing Tide (Falling): 2 hours after high tide to 1 hour before low tide. Ideal for catching species like Flathead, Whiting, and Trevally, which are more active in the changing currents.

Avoid Strong Currents: Try to fish during the slower tide phases to maintain control of your kayak and avoid strong currents, especially around the Waterways’ bridges and narrow passages.

Fishing Seasons in Waterways, VIC:

Summer (Dec to Feb): Excellent time for catching Yellowtail Kingfish, Australian Salmon, and Mulloway.

Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Prime seasons for Flathead, Whiting, and Trevally. Cooler waters also attract Bream and Estuary Perch.

Winter (Jun to Aug): Focus on species like Mulloway, Bream, and Estuary Perch, which are more active in the cooler, clearer waters.

Gear Tips for Success:

Rods and Reels: Medium-light to medium-heavy action spinning or baitcasting combos for handling a variety of species.

Lures:

Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for Flathead and Whiting.
Small to medium-sized metal slices for Trevally and Tailor.
Jigs or hard bodies for Mulloway and Bream.

Bait:

Live or frozen bait (pilchards, squid, or prawns) for Mulloway, Bream, and Trevally.
Fresh or frozen baitfish for Tailor and Salmon.

Safety First:

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

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

Visibility and Lighting:

Use reflective material on your kayak for increased visibility.
Carry a light source for early morning or late evening fishing trips.

First Aid Kit and Communication Device: Ensure you have a basic first aid kit on board and a reliable means of communication, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof case or a VHF radio.

Before You Launch:

Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.

Obtain any necessary fishing licenses.

Respect the environment and other water users, adhering to “catch-and-release” practices where possible to conserve Waterways’ fish populations.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy a productive and safe kayak fishing experience in Waterways, VIC. Always prioritize caution and respect for the environment, ensuring the waters remain bountiful for future adventures. Happy fishing!