Kayak Fishing in Marmion, WA: A Comprehensive Guide
Located just north of Perth, Marmion offers exceptional kayak fishing opportunities, with an abundance of species to target. To maximize your chances of landing a catch, it’s crucial to understand the ideal tide phases, fishing seasons, and essential gear and safety tips.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing in Marmion:
- Changing Tides: The hour leading up to and after the tide change (both rising and falling) is often the most productive. This period triggers baitfish movement, attracting larger predators.
- Low to Rising Tide: Excellent for targeting species like Whiting, Herring, and Flathead in the shallow, sandy areas and weed beds exposed during low tide.
- High Tide: Ideal for chasing species such as Mulloway, Tailor, and Trevally around structure like rocks, reefs, and the Marmion Angling Club Groynes.
Fishing Seasons in Marmion:
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Peak season for Tailor, Trevally, and Mulloway.
- Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Excellent for Whiting, Flathead, and Herring.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Target species like Salmon, Skipjack Trevally, and the occasional Mulloway.
Gear Tips for Kayak Fishing in Marmion:
- Rods & Reels: Medium-light to medium-heavy outfits for general fishing. For larger species like Mulloway, step up to a medium-heavy to heavy setup.
- Lures:
- Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for Whiting and Flathead.
- Small metal slices for Herring and Tailor.
- Larger metal lures or deep diving lures for Mulloway and Trevally.
- Baits:
- Live or frozen bait (e.g., prawns, herring) for most species.
- Lures tipped with bait for added attraction.
Safety First: Kayak Fishing in Marmion
- Check the Weather: Always forecast before heading out. Marmion can experience sudden wind changes.
- Life Jacket: Wear a properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times.
- Visibility:
- Use high-visibility clothing or attach reflective materials to your kayak.
- Ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights for early morning or late evening fishing.
- First Aid & Emergency Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit and a means of communication (e.g., phone, VHF radio).
- Fishing Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local bag limits, size restrictions, and any closed areas or species. Download the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s FishWatch app for easy reference.
Before You Paddle Out:
- Launch safely from designated kayak launch areas.
- Respect other water users and the environment.
- Enjoy the serene beauty of Marmion while reeling in your catch!
Remember, always practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve Marmion’s vibrant marine ecosystem. Tight lines, and see you on the water!
