Getting Ready for Paddle Season in Australia | Kayak & SUP Guide

When the water warms up and the wind settles, Australian lakes, estuaries and sheltered coastal stretches turn into perfect playgrounds for kayak fishing and stand-up paddle adventures. Whether you are rigging up for a dawn fishing session, taking the family exploring, or starting a new SUP fitness routine, the beginning of paddle season is the ideal time to gear up, tune up and improve your skills.

In this guide, we take a closer look at why these conditions suit paddle craft so well, what makes kayaks and SUPs such popular choices, and how to get the most out of your time on the water.

Why Paddle Season in Australia Is So Good

Warm water, lighter winds and longer daylight hours combine to create the perfect conditions for both kayakers and SUP riders. These months bring:

✓ Calmer Mornings

Early mornings usually have the most stable wind and glassy water. This is perfect for SUP beginners and kayak anglers chasing topwater action.

✓ Active Fish

Warmer water increases bait movement, which encourages predators to feed more actively. This means:

Flathead push onto the sandflats
Bream patrol rockwalls and pontoons
Whiting move over yabby banks
Bass fire up in the freshwater creeks
Pelagics begin cruising the edges of coastal bays

✓ Safe & Enjoyable Conditions

With less winter swell and lighter breezes, estuaries and lakes become more inviting for paddlers of all skill levels.

Choosing Your Craft: Kayak vs SUP

Both kayaks and SUPs (Stand-Up Paddle Boards) offer unique benefits. Here is how to pick what suits your adventure.

Kayaks: The Angler’s Best Mate

Kayaks offer stability, storage, and hands-free capability when fitted with pedal drive systems.

Best for:

Fishing
Longer distances
Exploring estuaries and rivers
Carrying gear, tackle, and esky bags

Why fishes love them:
You can sit low, stay stealthy, and cover ground while keeping rods rigged and gear organised.

How to Prepare Your Gear for Paddle Season

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just jumping into the world of SUPing, a little pre-season prep goes a long way.

1. Check Your Craft

Give your kayak or SUP a quick safety inspection:

Kayaks

Look for cracks around scupper holes
Check the rudder or pedal drive for stiffness
Tighten seat straps and mounts
Lubricate pedal drive units according to manufacturer guidelines
Make sure rod holders and rail mounts are secure

SUPs

Check valves for leaks
Inspect the fin box and make sure your fin locks in properly
For inflatable SUPs, check seams and inflate the board fully to ensure stability

2. Safety Gear: Never Skip These Essentials

Australian regulations vary slightly per state, but these basics apply everywhere:

Lifejacket / PFD Level 50 or 50S (required for kayaks & SUPs in most non-surf waters)
Leg leash (non-negotiable on SUPs)
Whistle for emergencies
Sun protection: hat, long sleeves, sunscreen
Dry bag for phone, keys, and wallet
Light & reflective gear for dawn or dusk sessions

Kayak Fishing Tips for the New Season

You are on the water at sunrise, rods rigged, coffee in the holder. Now it is time to talk technique.

Targeting Flathead on the Flats

Drift with the wind to cover more ground
Use soft plastics between 3 and 4 inches
Bounce them along sand edges or drop-offs
Look for drop-offs, weed edges and yabby beds

Chasing Bream Around Structure

Cast lightly weighted lures tight to pontoons, bridge pylons and rockwalls
Switch to hardbodies or crankbaits for shallow structure
Keep noise to a minimum because kayaks are naturally quiet

Trolling for Bass

Paddle slowly and steadily along river bends
Use deep-diving hardbodies
Focus on shaded banks and submerged timber

SUP Tips to Improve Stability and Technique

SUPing becomes much easier once your stance and technique are correct.

1. Use a Slightly Wider Stance

Feet shoulder-width apart provide better stability.

2. Keep Your Paddle Vertical

A vertical paddle stroke helps you track straighter and conserve energy.

3. Look Forward, Not Down

Your balance improves significantly when you look ahead instead of at your feet.

4. Use Your Core, Not Just Your Arms

Engage your torso and hips for power. This reduces fatigue and improves your stroke.

Best Places in Australia for Kayaking & SUPing

Here are a few local favourites among paddlers and kayak anglers:

NSW

Lake Macquarie
Hawkesbury River
Wallis Lake

QLD

Pumicestone Passage
Noosa River
Hinze Dam

VIC

Gippsland Lakes
Barwon River
Port Phillip shallows on calm days

WA

Swan River
Mandurah Estuary

These waterways offer calm conditions, accessible launch points and a great variety of fish habitats.

Must-Have Accessories for Paddle Season

These items make every session easier, safer and more enjoyable:

Waterproof phone case
Rod holders for kayaks
Kayak crate or tackle storage
Deck bungee cords
SUP dry bag or cooler
Safety flag for low-light visibility
Anchor systems for kayak fishing
Polarised sunglasses for spotting fish

Paddle season in Australia is one of the best times to explore the water, catch quality fish, and enjoy the outdoors. With the right gear, preparation, and technique, you’ll paddle further, fish smarter, and stay safe all season long.

If you need help choosing the best kayak, SUP, accessories, or fishing gear, the team at Fishing Superstore is always ready to help you gear up like a pro.

Getting Ready for Paddle Season in Australia: Your Ultimate Kayak & SUP Guide