Kayak Fishing in Exmouth, WA: A Guide to Reeling in the Big Ones
Located on the northwest coast of Western Australia, Exmouth is renowned for its incredible kayak fishing opportunities. The town’s proximity to the Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes it a hotspot for catching an array of species. To maximize your chances of landing a prized catch, follow this expert guide on the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Exmouth:
- Changing Tides: The period around the changing tides (slack water) is often most productive. This transition usually lasts about an hour and can trigger feeding frenzies among fish.
- Incoming Tide (Rising Tide): Excellent for targeting species like mangrove jack, trevally, and mulloway as they move into the shallower, coastal areas in search of food.
- Outgoing Tide (Falling Tide): Ideal for catching species that congregate around reef edges and drop-offs, such as coral trout and emperor fish.
Recommended Tide Times:
– Early Morning: 1-2 hours after sunrise, coinciding with the changing tide for a productive start.
– Late Afternoon/Early Evening: 1-2 hours before sunset, again aligning with the tide change for a fruitful end to the day.
Fishing Seasons in Exmouth:
- Peak Season (March to August): Offers the best conditions for targeting a wide range of species, including billfish, marlin, and sailfish.
- Turtle Nesting Season (November to February): While not the peak fishing season, it’s essential to be aware of turtle nesting sites to avoid disturbance.
Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Exmouth:
- Rod/Reel Combo: A medium to heavy action combo suitable for both bottom fishing and trolling.
- Lures/Bait:
- Lures: Soft plastics, metal jigs, and poppers for surface action.
- Bait: Live or frozen baits like squid, pilchards, and prawns for bottom fishing.
- Kayak Setup: Ensure your kayak is equipped with a comfortable seating system, ample storage for gear, and a reliable paddle or pedal system.
- Safety Gear: Always carry a first aid kit, VHF radio or satellite phone, sunscreen, and a repair kit for your kayak.
Safety First:
- Weather and Sea Conditions: Check forecasts regularly and avoid fishing during strong winds or rough seas.
- Sun Protection: Exmouth’s sun can be fierce; wear protective clothing, a hat, and apply sunscreen frequently.
- Awareness of Marine Life: Be cautious of sharks, rays, and sea snakes. Maintain a safe distance from turtles and their nesting sites.
- Buddy System: Whenever possible, fish with a buddy and inform someone of your itinerary, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a successful and safe kayak fishing experience in the breathtaking waters off Exmouth, WA. Always respect the marine environment and practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve the region’s incredible biodiversity. Happy fishing!
