Kayak Fishing in Bunbury, WA: A Guide to Reeling in the Big Ones

Located in the southwestern corner of Western Australia, Bunbury offers kayak fishers a unique opportunity to catch a variety of species in its pristine waters. To maximize your chances of landing a beauty, it’s crucial to understand the best tide times, fishing seasons, and essential gear and safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Bunbury:

1. Changing Tides: The period of changing tides, especially the last two hours of the incoming tide and the first two hours of the outgoing tide, are often the most productive. This is when predators are most active, chasing baitfish into the changing water levels.

2. Low Tide for Estuaries and Rivers: For targeting species like Mulloway, Bream, and Whiting in Bunbury’s estuaries and rivers, fishing during the low tide phase can be highly effective. Exposed sandbars and weed beds concentrate bait, attracting larger fish.

3. High Tide for Coastal Areas: For those venturing into the coastal areas around Bunbury, high tide can provide access to reefs and rocky outcrops that are usually submerged, home to species like Salmon, Herring, and the occasional Dhufish.

Fishing Seasons in Bunbury:

• Summer (Dec to Feb): Ideal for catching Australian Herring, Whiting, and Mulloway.
• Autumn (Mar to May): Excellent for Bream, with larger specimens more active during this period.
• Winter (Jun to Aug): Target species like Salmon and small Shark species that move closer to shore.
• Spring (Sep to Nov): A good time for catching larger Mulloway and the start of the Bream season.

Gear Tips:

• Rod and Reel: A medium to light action spinning rod and reel with a capacity to hold at least 150 meters of 10-15lb monofilament or braid.
• Lures/Bait: Soft plastics, small metal slices, and squid jigs for estuary species. For coastal fishing, use larger metal lures or whole baits like squid or fish fillets.
• Paddle or Pedal: Consider a pedal kayak for efficiency and hands-free fishing in open waters.
• Safety Gear: Always wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device), and carry a VHF radio, first aid kit, and a repair kit for your kayak.

Safety First:

• Check the Weather: Never head out without checking the forecast. Bunbury’s weather can change rapidly.
• Tide Awareness: Understand how tides will affect your fishing spot and exit strategy.
• Visible and Illuminated: Use lights if fishing at dawn, dusk, or night, and ensure your kayak is visible to other watercraft.
• Inform Someone: Let someone know your fishing plan, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the best of kayak fishing that Bunbury, WA, has to offer. Always respect the environment, practice catch-and-release fishing when appropriate, and enjoy the serene beauty of Western Australia’s waters.