Kayak Fishing Guide: Madora Bay, Western Australia
Location Overview
Madora Bay, situated near Mandurah, Western Australia, offers an exhilarating kayak fishing experience. The bay’s tranquil waters, surrounded by scenic coastline and abundant marine life, make it an ideal spot for anglers of all levels.
Best Tide Times for Kayak Fishing
To maximize your catch, focus on the following tide phases:
- Changing Tides (Peak Fishing Time): 1-2 hours either side of the low tide and high tide marks. These periods trigger increased fish activity as baitfish and prey are more concentrated.
- Low Tide: Exposed structures like reefs, weed beds, and sandbars become more accessible, attracting species like whiting, herring, and flathead.
- Early Morning/ Late Afternoon High Tide: These periods are ideal for targeting species in the bay’s shallower areas, such as bream, mullet, and small pelagics.
Fishing Seasons in Madora Bay
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Target Australian herring, small mulloway, and flathead.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Excellent for bream, whiting, and skippy (Australian salmon).
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Focus on mulloway, tailor, and larger herring.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Enjoy a mixed bag of bream, whiting, herring, and the occasional mulloway.
Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Madora Bay
- Rods/Reels: Medium to light action combos (2-4 kg) suitable for most species.
- Lures/Bait:
- Lures: Small soft plastics, metal slices (e.g., for herring and skippy), and shallow diving hard bodies.
- Bait: Bloodworms, squid strips, and small fish baits (e.g., for bream and whiting).
- Kayak Accessories:
- Rod holders and a storage hatch for gear.
- Anchor or a shallow water stake-out system for stability.
- Paddle leash and a personal locator beacon (PLB) or VHF radio for safety.
Safety First
- Always Wear: A properly fitting life jacket (PFD) and a hat for sun protection.
- Check the Weather: Before and during your trip. Madora Bay can be affected by strong southerly winds and storms.
- Visibility and Lighting: Use high-visibility clothing and ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights for early morning or late evening trips.
- Inform Someone: Of your trip itinerary, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.
- Respect the Environment: Follow catch-and-release guidelines for sustainable fishing practices and take all rubbish with you when you leave.
Final Check
Before pushing off from the shore, ensure you have:
- A valid Western Australian Recreational Fishing Licence
- Familiarized yourself with local fishing regulations (bag limits, size restrictions)
- A first-aid kit and basic tool kit on board
Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in Madora Bay, and remember to respect the environment and other water users. Tight lines!
