Best tide times for kayak fishing near Lancelin, WA

Kayak Fishing in Lancelin, WA: A Guide to Reeling in the Best Catches

Located about an hour and a half north of Perth, Lancelin is a paradise for kayak fishermen, offering a rich tapestry of marine life, including mulloway, tailor, whiting, and even the occasional dhufish. To maximize your chances of landing a trophy, timing is everything. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your kayak fishing adventure in Lancelin.

Ideal Tide Times:

• Peak Fishing Periods:
• Early Morning: The first light of dawn, about an hour before sunrise, often brings tailor and mulloway into shallow waters.

• Late Afternoon/Early Evening: As the sun sets, whiting and herring become more active in the shallows.

• Tide Phases:

• Changing Tides (Peak to Low or Low to Peak): These periods are usually the most productive for catching a variety of species as the movement stirs up baitfish and other prey.
• Low Tide: Excellent for targeting species in the shallow flats and gutters, especially whiting and smaller fish.
• Avoid: High tide, especially during full moon, as fish often retreat to deeper waters, making them less accessible from a kayak.

Fishing Seasons in Lancelin:

• Year-Round: Whiting, Herring, and Small Species
• September to November: Tailor and Mulloway are more active as waters warm up.
• December to February: Peak summer months for a wide variety of species, but beware of the heat.
• March to May: Still a good time for mulloway and tailor, with the added bonus of fewer beachgoers.

Gear Tips:

• Rod/Reel Combo: A medium-light to medium-heavy action combo suitable for a variety of species.
• Lures:
• Metal Slugs and Spoons: Effective for tailor and mulloway.
• Soft Plastics: Great for whiting and smaller species.
• Jigs: Useful for deeper waters, targeting dhufish and larger mulloway.
• Bait:
• Live Bait (Pilchards, Herring): Excellent for larger predators.
• Fresh Baits (Squid, Prawns): Ideal for a mix of species.

Safety First:

• Always Wear a Life Jacket: A PFD (Personal Flotation Device) is not just a safety precaution, it’s the law.
• Check the Weather: Lancelin can experience sudden changes in weather. Monitor forecasts closely.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing are must-haves.
• Carry a VHF Radio or Satellite Phone: Especially if venturing far from shore or in areas with poor mobile coverage.
• Inform Someone of Your Itinerary: Let a friend or family member know your planned route, expected return time, and the number of people in your group.

Before You Launch:

• Ensure you have a valid Western Australian Recreational Fishing Licence.
• Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits and size restrictions.

With the right gear, an understanding of the tides, and a focus on safety, your kayak fishing adventure in Lancelin is set to be both enjoyable and rewarding. Tight lines!