Kayak Fishing Guide for Ridgewood, WA

Located near the picturesque waters of the Indian Ocean, Ridgewood, Western Australia, offers an exciting kayak fishing experience. To maximize your catch, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, covering the best tide times, fishing seasons, essential gear, and crucial safety tips.

Ideal Tide Phases for Kayak Fishing:

• Best Tides: Changing tides, particularly the last 2 hours of the incoming tide and the first 2 hours of the outgoing tide. These periods often stir up baitfish, attracting larger predators.
• Secondary Option: Low Light Conditions during dawn and dusk, regardless of the tide phase, can be highly productive for targeting species like Mulloway and Tailor.

Fishing Seasons in Ridgewood, WA:

• Year-Round Targets:
  • Bream
  • Whiting
  • Herring
• Seasonal Highlights:
  • Summer (Dec to Feb): Mulloway, Tailor, and the occasional Mackerel.
  • Autumn (Mar to May) and Spring (Sep to Nov): Excellent for Mulloway and Tailor, with increased Whiting activity.
  • Winter (Jun to Aug): Focus on Bream, Whiting, and the possibility of catching a Winter Mulloway.

Gear Tips for Success:

• Rods and Reels:
  • Light to Medium action rods for Bream and Whiting.
  • Medium to Heavy action for Mulloway and Tailor.
• Lures and Baits:
  • Soft plastics (e.g., curly tail grubs) for Bream and Mulloway.
  • Small metals and hard-bodied lures for Tailor and Mackerel.
  • Live or frozen baits (e.g., prawns, herring) for a wider range of species.
• Kayak Accessories:
  • Anchor or a kayak anchor trolley for precise positioning.
  • Paddle leash and a small, waterproof storage for gear.

Safety First:

• Weather and Sea Conditions: Always check forecasts before heading out. Ridgewood’s waters can quickly become hazardous in strong winds or large swells.
• Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Mandatory. Ensure yours is in good condition.
• Visibility and Lighting: Wear high-visibility clothing, especially during low light conditions. Consider additional lighting on your kayak for increased visibility to other water users.
• Communication: Carry a waterproof VHF radio or a cell phone in a waterproof pouch. Inform someone of your itinerary, including launch and return times.
• First Aid Kit: A small, basic kit should always be on board.

Before You Launch:

• Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including bag limits, size restrictions, and any closed areas.
• Respect the environment and other water users, adhering to “catch-and-release” practices when appropriate.

By following this guide, you’re well on your way to an enjoyable and rewarding kayak fishing experience in Ridgewood, WA. Always remember, safety and sustainability are key to preserving this incredible fishery for future generations. Tight lines!