Kayak Fishing Guide for Naval Base, WA
Located on the picturesque Swan River, Naval Base, WA, offers an exciting kayak fishing experience. To increase your chances of landing a prized catch, follow this expert guide:
Ideal Tide Phases:
- Peak Fishing Times:
- Changing Tides: 1-2 hours before and after both high and low tide. This period often triggers feeding frenzies among fish.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening High Tide: Typically, 3-5 pm, when fish tend to move into shallower waters to feed.
- Avoid: Extreme low tides, as they can limit access to favorable fishing spots and increase the risk of getting stranded.
Fishing Seasons:
- Year-Round Targets:
- Mulloway (Jewfish)
- Bream
- Flathead
- Seasonal Highlights:
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Tailor, Herring, and occasionally, early season Mulloway.
- Autumn (Mar-May) & Spring (Sep-Nov): Prime times for catching larger Mulloway and Bream as they congregate in the area.
Gear Tips:
- Rods & Reels: Medium to light action combos (2-4 kg) suitable for Bream, Flathead, and smaller Mulloway. Heavier actions (6-10 kg) for larger Mulloway.
- Lures:
- Soft plastics (e.g., curl tails, prawn imitations) for Bream and Flathead.
- Small metal slices or hard-bodied lures for Tailor and Herring.
- Larger, diving lures for Mulloway.
- Bait: Fresh or frozen bait like prawns, pilchards, and herring for a more traditional approach.
Safety First:
- PFD (Life Jacket): Always wear one, ensuring it’s Coast Guard-approved and suitable for your size.
- Communication Device: Carry a waterproof phone case or a handheld VHF radio.
- First Aid Kit: A basic kit should include supplies for minor injuries, sunburn, and potential allergic reactions.
- Weather Awareness: Monitor forecasts. Avoid kayaking during strong winds, thunderstorms, or rough seas.
- Navigation Lights: If you plan to fish during dusk or dawn, ensure your kayak is equipped with navigation lights to maintain visibility.
- Fishing Licenses: Ensure you hold a current Western Australian Recreational Fishing Licence.
Additional Tips for Naval Base, WA:
- Respect Military Operations: Be aware of and comply with any naval base restrictions or closures.
- Environmental Awareness: Practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve fish populations, and always dispose of waste properly.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the exciting world of kayak fishing in Naval Base, WA. Always remember, safety and sustainability are key to enjoying your time on the water. Tight lines!
