Sandringham Breakwall, PPB

Author: josh

Category: Destinations

Created on Monday, 24 May 2010 19:25

Written by Josh

Although nice and close to Black Rock and Ricketts Point, you don't often hear about Sandringham as a worthy kayak fishing destination. This surprises me a bit, because it really is a pretty convenient location, both for some land based fishing from the breakwall, or otherwise from boat or kayak within or beyond it. I share a connection with this place, as it lies within a stones throw distance from where I lived in Sandringham for near a decade, and is where I cut my teeth with kayak fishing. In fact, my main inspiration for taking up kayak fishing came after many hours fishing from the breakwall, all the while  wishing that I had some way of getting just a bit further out to the patches of reef that are scattered arund the area - many of which play home to resident and seasonal pinky Snapper.

Limited to a motorbike for transport, I picked up a light inflatable kayak and began exploring the area every opportunity that I got. The Sandringham breakwall turned out to be an excellent place to start experimenting with the sport of kayak fishing for several reasons. First of all, it was usually pretty easy to get a park near the cafe, which offers close and easy access to the beach. Secondly, because the breakwall offers excellent protection from strong winds from various directions, it's quite possible to head out and fish during times where it would be exceedingly challenging elsewhere. In instances where strong winds are coming from the north it's easily possible to find refuge either directly behind the breakwall, or even among the moored yachts.

I've had a great deal of success fishing for Aussie Salmon here, many times hooking onto fish with each and every cast. With a little finesse Bream can be caught here as well, along with the obligatory Flathead. AFL personality Sam Newman has a gargantuan boat moored here and much to his disgust (I think he always thought I was paparazzi), I often found a school of sambos directly under his boat! On a side note, I typically heard loud expletives being roared (not at me... I think) from within his cabin - usually when I was pretty sure he was alone. Maybe he was betting on the horses and losing races - I du't know. I do know that the personality you see on TV isn't made up - he really is an angry, angry man. But I digress...

Whenever strong winds prevail from the south, shelter can be found on the opposite side of the breakwall and you won't have to listen to Sam's bellowing from here. I've had less success with Aussie Salmon here, but have encountered them on odd days. Flathead and Sting Rays are more frequent, however, as are Whiting in various patches. Protection can also be found on the inner side of the breakwall, where Flathead, Salmon and Pinkie Snapper will often be found.

It needs to be mentioned that although paddling around the moored boats seems to be kosher enough, consideration does need to be paid to them. Always give boats plenty of room to pass and always remain aware of your position in relation to any other boat. And for god’s sake, be careful flicking lures around - most of these guys are filthy rich and wouldn't appreciate lead weights crashing into their prized possessions of the sea.

Beyond the breakwall the fishing can also be pretty spectacular on the right day - especially when the Salmon show up, or the pinkies get active. Flathead is the most reliable of target species in the general area and Whiting are often sought closer in to shore. Generally speaking, fishing around the breakwall can be a hit and miss affair. I've probably experienced as many fishless days as I have otherwise, although the productive days were usually especially so. The samboes move in and out with irregular frequency and the Snapper and Flathead definitely become more active in the warmer months.

Typically Sandringham will fish better with oncoming westerlies - especially fishing for Snapper from outside the breakwall (particularly after a heavy west/south westerly-blowing gale). Of course, the golden rules of dawn, dusk and tide changes also seem to apply for best results. Berley can be particularly effective in the area if a little thought is put into the deployment strategy.

My personal best Snapper of just over 4kg was hooked 5km out from the breakwall at the well-known Fawkner Beacon. Larger size specimens are common here throughout the warmer months, but only relatively experienced kayakers should venture out this far.

As with kayak fishing within the breakwall, caution needs to be applied outside of it as well. On certain days this area can become enveloped by wind surfers and many of them seem to think they always have right of way. Watch your back when they get anywhere near you, and watch where your lines are dangling.  

With easy access and close proximity to the Melbourne masses, the Sandringham breakwall really does have a lot to offer to kayak and land-bound anglers. On the right day the fishing can be surprisingly good here. In times of rough weather, the breakwall can be a godsend for anyone busting to scratch their kayak-fishing itch. And having a laugh at Sam's expense (I saw him there most Mondays) is just as funny here as it is on TV. Keep an eye out for Dolphins out this way, as they tend to show up often.

How to get there

Turn into Jetty Road from Beach Road and find a park down to the right near the cafe if available. If not, seek a park in the upper area and wheel your kayak down. Beware, parking costs per hour here, so come prepared with coins. The best place to launch is directly out from the cafe.