Kayak Fishing is one of the fastest growing paddle sports in the world………it’s no surprise that here on the Gold Coast, the fishing ‘meca’ of Australia, it’s going crazy!
Even if the Gold Coast didn’t have any fish it would still be a great place to live. It almost seems unfair that we have so many fantastic fishing options that are easily accessed by a fishing kayak.
If freshwater fishing is your thing, we have Hinze Dam, Clarrie Hall Dam and the upper reaches of rivers such as the Coomera, Pimpama, Albert, Tallebudgera and Tweed River. Most guys fishing these waterways tend to target Australian Bass, but would also be happy with Saratoga, Silver Perch or Golden Perch.
If you move a little closer to the coast, into the estuaries, species such as Bream, Flathead, Mangrove Jack & Golden Trevally are the likely targets. Then you have the whole canal system that the Gold Coast is built around…….have a look at a map or Google Earth. I think if you joined it all together in a straight line you would have the longest waterway in Australia. Saltwater Creek in the north, Emerald Lakes in the middle and Terranora Creek in the south would be a few of my favourite spots.
That brings us to the Gold Coast Broadwater and Southern Moreton Bay, again all on our front door step! Here you can catch just about anything but would be happy with any of your estuary fish mentioned above or a few Whiting, Tailor or even Black Bream caught inside the Seaway Wall.
Now let me tell you why a kayak is perfect for all these locations and why fisherman can’t sell their boats fast enough in the race to get a fishing kayak. First of all there is no boat registration, trailer registration, fuel, maintenance costs and insurance. Buying a fishing kayak is actually going to save you money…….. you can try this line on your beloved wife when you first suggest to her the idea of buying a fishing kayak! You also don’t have to deal with the congestion of our busy Gold Coast boat ramps, you can launch a kayak any where! This gives you access to areas that you can’t launch a boat. Then there is the extra stealth factor….. so you can catch more fish.
The most significant advantage of fishing from a kayak is that you also get some exercise while you’re out enjoying your fishing. Fisherman are sometimes reluctant to take up a paddle (or pedals in the case of the Native Watercraft fishing kayaks) and quite often feel they’ll need an electric motor on their first kayak. It is actually this bit of exercise that gives a sense of fulfilment that can’t be experienced from a boat or shore fishing.
Finally there are the limitless options for offshore kayak fishing. This is not for the faint hearted and requires a little ‘know how’ and sometimes a little luck, whether getting in and out through the surf or trying to land a big fish. Places such as Palm Beach Reef, 1 Mile Reef, Gravel Patch or Fido’s Reef are all less than 60 minute paddles for a streamlined fishing kayak. Offshore catches could consist of Jew, Snapper, Cobia, Mackerel, Tuna…….maybe even a Marlin!
At Adventure Outlet we specialise in fitting you out with the perfect fishing kayak. We stock quality brands such as Native Watercraft, Viking, Wilderness Systems, Ocean Kayak, Stealth, Mission, Extreme & Old Town. Our kayaks start from $299 for a basic sit on top kayak. We specialise in kayak fit out, often adding extra rod holders, anchor systems, fish finders, sails, deluxe seating & storage options. Come and see us for the best kayaks and kayak fishing advice on the Gold Coast. To check out our kayaks go to…………www.adventureoutlet.com.au or Shop 5, 3 Jackman St Southport or Ph. 07 55712929.