Getting out and involved in the action is what rock fishing is all about, but there are some important factors to plan before you do.
Finding the best spot to cast your line can often mean accessing dangerous rock platforms. While this can get you into great position for angling, always remember that what may have been a relatively easy walk at low tide can become challenging, if not near-impossible for a fully clothed angler with gear.
For professionals, rock fishing can be an all-weather sport, but you should be prepared for what the elements can throw at you. Getting caught in a storm is never fun, and it can be life threatening on an exposed rock ledge.
Be sure to check the latest forecast on either the internet, radio or TV (Bureau of Meteorology, Seabreez.com, Coastalwatch or Willyweather) before you set out, so you know what to expect. Remember to be sensible and call it quits when the weather gets too rough.
When choosing a good fishing spot always spend time working out the swell band
checking conditions, this starts before you even leave home. Some rock ledges look perfect for a few minutes - that is, until the swell rises and hits it with a powerful wave. Make sure you wait and observe a full swell cycle (up least 30 minutes) so that you know exactly how the water is behaving before you take up position.
Long period swell is particularly important to understand frequency and power of waves
and the level of danger they will present as they hit the coast.
Remember that the swell will be at its most unpredictable shortly after stormy weather and at changing tides.
Rock fishing requires not only tackle, but also good clothing and footwear that will keep you safe and warm. Above all else, life jackets save lives and should be the most
important part of your kit.
It can be tempting to arm yourself against the elements with big, heavy, waterproof clothing to keep you dry and warm. However, if anything should go wrong and you end up in the water, these clothes will weigh you down and make it very difficult to swim to safety.
Instead, you should pick lightweight clothing that will be easy to swim in. Shorts and light t-shirts are great for this. Some anglers also like wetsuits as these help you to float and also keep you warm and protected from the spray whilst fishing.
As with clothing, you want to avoid any heavy footwear. Gum boots and heavy hiking boots will fill with water if you end up in the ocean and drag you down.
Matching your shoes to the surface you will be fishing on is the best way to get good grip and proper foot protection. For example:
Life jackets are essential for rock fishers providing you with the highest level of safety if you fall into the water. Life jackets can be worn comfortably over your clothing.
The law now states that anyone who is rock fishing in the Randwick local government area (including children), and anyone who is helping out, must wear a life jacket. Other
councils will be introducing life jacket legislation within the next year. Fines do apply for non-compliance.
The best tackle for you will depend on your own fishing experience and the type of species you hope to catch.
To make sure you are prepared for some variety many anglers bring two rods, primed for lighter and heavier fish.
Along with your rods you will also need: