Kayak Fishing Guide for North Fremantle, WA
Location Overview
North Fremantle, situated on the Swan River’s mouth, offers kayak fishers a unique blend of river and coastal species. The area’s mix of sandy flats, weed beds, and structure provides a habitat for a diverse range of fish.
Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:
- Incoming Tide (Rising): Best for targeting species like Mulloway, Tailor, and Herring as baitfish are pushed into the area.
- Peak High Tide: Excellent for fishing the submerged structure and weed beds for species like Bream, Whiting, and Flathead.
- Outgoing Tide (Falling): Ideal for catching species like Mulloway and Tailor again, as they hunt in the shallows and channels.
Recommended Fishing Seasons:
- Summer (Dec to Feb): Peak season for Mulloway, Tailor, and Whiting.
- Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Best for Bream, Flathead, and Herring.
- Winter (Jun to Aug): Target species like Tailor and Mulloway in the deeper channels.
Gear Tips:
- Rods & Reels: Medium to light action spin or baitcaster outfits suitable for 1-4 kg fish.
- Lures:
- Soft plastics (curly tail grubs, paddle-tail lures) for Bream and Flathead.
- Small metal slices and hard-body lures for Tailor and Mulloway.
- Tiny jigs for Herring.
- Bait:
- Live or frozen bait (pilchards, mulies, herring) for Mulloway and Tailor.
- Bloodworms or nippers for Whiting and Bream.
Safety First:
- Always Wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device): A must, even for strong swimmers.
- Check the Weather Forecast: Avoid fishing during strong winds or thunderstorms.
- Tide Awareness: Be aware of the tide times to avoid being stranded or swept away.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses.
- VHF Radio or Phone: Carry a means of communication in case of emergencies.
- Fishing Licenses: Ensure you have a valid Western Australian Recreational Fishing Licence.
Additional Tips for North Fremantle:
- Respect Local Regulations: Check for any closed areas or size/bag limits.
- Launch Sites: Utilize the public boat ramps in North Fremantle for easy kayak launch.
- Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of the marine environment and other water users.
Enjoy your kayak fishing adventure in North Fremantle, and remember, practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve our beautiful Western Australian marine life. Tight lines!
