Tips for kayak fishing

How it all started

I started my kayak fishing journey about 3 years ago when I was frustrated at not being able to cast quite far enough for my liking (land based). My first kayak was a paddle kayak, three metres in length and very stable. It cost me about $700 new as a basic kayak. I then added some fishing equipment to it, such as rod holders and anchor pulley system.

Bron’s first kayak

After 12 months, I realised that I really needed my hands free, so that I could fish (not hold a paddle). So I upgraded to a Hobie Compass peddle kayak. Small enough for me to car top, big enough to comfortably fish out of. These kayaks are not cheap by any means. Marketplace and Gumtree offer some good second-hand ones.

Bron’s current kayak fishing set up

Now, I was someone who got seasick walking over a puddle! So, if you’re thinking that’s not for me, think again, it might be. I love being on the water. It calms me. There’s something amazing about being so close to the water and watching nature all around you. The sunrises, sunsets, glass out water days, birds, dolphins… and of course there’s the fish! And I’m finding my sea legs, which helps immensely!

Choosing the right kayak

Things to consider:

• Weight capacity and stability – the Hobie Compass is stable for sitting in, less stable if standing, I don’t use stabilisers but these might be something you could consider
• Length and manoeuvrability
• Peddle vs paddle – peddle means your hands are free to fish, also easier if you wish to troll for fish
  Comfort (seat type, adjustability) – I don’t like to get a wet backside! My seat is elevated off the base
• Storage options (for gear and fish) – I have an esky on the back which can hold a decent amount of fish but also doesn’t weigh the kayak down, there is limited storage for gear, so only take what you really need. I have a round storage hatch at the front that has the battery for my sounder and a rectangular storage hatch directly in front of where I sit, where most of my gear is stored
• Transport and storage options for your kayak – I car top my kayak on my own – storage is in my garage, I use an electric hoist to store it hanging from the roof. There are devices available that can assist with getting your kayak on the roof of your car, or you may choose to have a kayak trailer

Travelling to the fishing location with the kayak on the car roof

Safety tips for beginners

1. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Mandatory for all kayakers: You must wear an approved personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while kayaking. This includes kayaks used for recreational purposes and those used in activities like fishing.
PFDs must meet the relevant Australian Standard (AS 4758 or AS 1512), and you should ensure your PFD is in good condition.

2. Whistles
All kayaks must carry a whistle that can be easily accessed. This is important for signalling and communication, especially in emergency situations. This is often already on your PFD.

3. Lighting Requirements (for night-time)
If you’re kayaking at night or in low visibility conditions, your kayak must be equipped with white lights visible from a distance of at least 200 metres. These lights are usually mounted on the kayak and help increase visibility for other boaters.
A light source is important to be seen by larger vessels, especially on busy waterway systems.
A flag is also a good safety addition

4. Other Safety Equipment
A first aid kit and safety knife. I carry a pocket knife in my PFD, so that I can cut lines if I capsize and become tangled.
Leash for the Paddle: So it doesn’t drift away.

5. EPIRBs
While not always required for kayaks, it is recommended to carry an EPIRB if operating in open waters more than 2 nautical miles from shore. I carry an EPIRB regardless. It is stored in my PFD.

6. Weather Conditions
Victoria’s weather can be unpredictable, especially on the coast. Always check the weather and water conditions before heading out and avoid kayaking in extreme weather or when the conditions are unsafe.
Some estuaries and areas of Port Phillip can have strong currents. Wind conditions play an important part in determining safety on the water. When starting out I never went out if winds were predicted to be higher than 10 knots, I always tried to have the wind direction going land to ocean as this lessens the chance of waves. There are plenty of weather apps available that show weather, wind, tides etc. A couple that I use frequently are WillyWeather and Windfinder

7. Boating Registration (for certain kayaks)
While kayaks used for recreational purposes generally don’t need to be registered, motorised kayaks or kayaks with a motor do require boating registration. If your kayak is powered by a motor, you’ll need to comply with all regulations related to powered vessels.

General responsibilities

While kayaking, you must:

Be aware of other boat traffic and give way to larger vessels, especially those under motor power.
Obey all waterway signs and regulations regarding speed limits, zones, and restricted areas.

It’s good practice to let someone know where you’ll be fishing, what time you intend to leave and what time you intend to be back on shore

When you first start out, try to head out with other experienced kayakers

If you’re planning on kayaking in certain areas like port areas, national parks, or marine reserves, check for any additional local rules or restrictions that might apply. “Can I Fish Here” on the Vic Fishing App is a great way to find out if there are any restrictions for the area you intend to fish.

Also check on the Victorian Fisheries Authorities website or app with regards to “closed seasons” as well as minimum (and maximum) size and bag limits for fish (and other marine life).

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