Fishing Port Phillip Bay
Fishing in Port Phillip Bay is influenced by seasonal changes, tidal movements, and wind conditions. Snapper fishing is typically best during the warmer months (October to April) when they migrate into the bay to spawn. Whiting fishing can be productive year-round, but peaks in the summer. Tides play a crucial role, with many anglers preferring to fish during high tide. Strong winds can make boat fishing challenging, so it's essential to check the forecast before heading out.
The land surrounding Port Phillip Bay features a mix of urban areas, sandy beaches, and rocky outcrops. This varied terrain provides numerous access points for land-based fishing. Piers, jetties, and breakwaters are popular choices, offering convenient platforms to cast from. Be aware of any access restrictions or permits required for specific locations.
Boating access to Port Phillip Bay is excellent, with numerous boat ramps and marinas located around the bay. These facilities provide easy access to a wide range of fishing locations, from shallow inshore waters to deeper offshore reefs. A boat allows anglers to explore a greater area of the bay and target specific species and fishing grounds.
Top 10 Species
Landbased
- St Kilda Pier: A popular spot for squid and garfish, especially in the evenings. Fish off the end of the pier using squid jigs or small baits under a float.
- Princes Pier, Port Melbourne: Offers good access for snapper and whiting. Try fishing with squid or pipis on a running sinker rig.
- Brighton Pier: A family-friendly location with a variety of species including flathead and pinkies. Use soft plastics or baited hooks around the pylons.
- Frankston Pier: A well-known spot for squid, whiting, and snapper. Fish with squid jigs or baited rigs near the sea floor.
- Mordialloc Pier: Provides opportunities for pinkies, flathead, and the occasional gummy shark. Use a variety of baits and lures, and fish at different depths to find where the fish are holding.
- Williamstown Breakwater: Offers protection from the wind and good fishing for snapper and squid. Try using squid jigs or drifting baits along the rocks.
- Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park: Fishing off the rocks can produce snapper and squid. Use caution due to slippery surfaces and strong currents.
Offshore
- Black Rock: Known for snapper and gummy sharks. Anchor and berley to attract fish.
- Beaumaris Bay: A popular spot for whiting and flathead. Drifting with pipis or squid strips works well.
- Mornington: Good grounds for snapper, especially during the warmer months. Use paternoster rigs with squid or pilchard baits.
- Mount Martha: Offers excellent snapper fishing. Look for reef structure and use berley to bring the fish in.
- Port Melbourne: Close to shore, this spot is known for whiting and pinkies. Drifting with small baits is effective.
Local Bait Tips
- Yabbies: Pump at low tide on the mud flats around Swan Bay.
- Prawns: Net in shallow weedy areas of the bay, particularly around seagrass beds.
- Squid: Jigged around piers and structures, especially during dawn and dusk.
Bait and Tackle
- Anaconda Frankston: Frankston Power Centre, 111 Cranbourne Rd, Frankston VIC 3199
(03) 8796 0500 - United Petroleum Mornington (Pie Face) (After Hours): 211 Racecourse Rd, Mornington VIC 3931
(03) 8691 2030
Emergency & Safety
- Coast Guard St Kilda: St Kilda Marina, 42C Marine Parade, St Kilda VIC 3182
(03) 7020 3310 - Emergency: Dial 000
