Kayak Fishing in Dunsborough, WA: A Comprehensive Guide

Located in the picturesque South West of Western Australia, Dunsborough offers kayak fishermen a paradise of diverse marine life, scenic coastline, and protected waters. To maximize your catch and ensure a safe experience, follow this expert guide tailored to Dunsborough’s unique fishing environment.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

• Peak Fishing Tides:
• Early Morning High Tide: Fish the changing tide (1 hour before to 1 hour after high tide) for species like Mulloway, Tailor, and Bream in the shallow waters of Geographe Bay.

• Late Afternoon Low Tide: Target Herring, Whiting, and the occasional Snapper in the exposed reefs and sand flats around the Cape Naturaliste area.

• Secondary Fishing Tides:

• Rising Tide (Mid-Tide): Effective for catching Australian Salmon and Skipjack Trevally in the coastal areas near Meelup Regional Park.

Fishing Seasons in Dunsborough:

• Summer (Dec to Feb): Peak season for Australian Salmon, Mulloway, and Tailor.
• Autumn (Mar to May): Excellent for Bream, Whiting, and the start of Snapper season.
• Winter (Jun to Aug): Target demersal species like Snapper, and occasionally, Nannygai.
• Spring (Sep to Nov): See the return of Mulloway, Tailor, and an abundance of Herring.

Gear Tips:

• Rod and Reel: A medium to light action spin outfit (2-4 kg) with a reel containing at least 150 meters of 10-15 lb monofilament or braid.
• Lures/Bait:
• Lures: Small metal slices for Herring and Australian Salmon, soft plastics for Bream and Whiting.
• Bait: Use fresh Herring or Pilchards for Mulloway and Tailor, and Squid for Snapper.
• Kayak Accessories: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating system, storage for gear, a paddle leash, and a reliable anchoring system.

Safety First:

• Weather Forecast: Always check the latest forecast before heading out. Dunsborough’s weather can change rapidly.
• Life Jacket: Wear a properly fitted, Australian Standards-approved life jacket at all times.
• Visibility: Use a flag or high-visibility clothing to ensure you’re seen by other watercraft.
• Sun Protection: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against WA’s intense sun.
• First Aid Kit: Keep a basic kit on board, including supplies for common fishing-related injuries.
• VHF Radio or Satellite Phone: For emergency communications, especially when fishing in remote areas.

Additional Tips for Dunsborough:

• Respect Local Regulations: Check with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development for up-to-date fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.
• Environmental Awareness: Practice catch-and-release fishing where appropriate, and always dispose of waste responsibly.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the best of Dunsborough’s kayak fishing, while contributing to the sustainability of its marine environment. Happy paddling and tight lines!