Planning a fishing expedition on open waters? If you’re going to be using a kayak, it’s incredibly important to take the proper safety precautions. With the right supplies, the right kayak, optimal weather conditions and a little preparation, you’ll be able to navigate open water safely and minimise any potential risks.
Remember, open waters are not to be taken lightly–so, read on to find out how you can stay protected and still make the most of your kayaking experience!
The Challenges of Navigating Open Waters in Australia
As noted by Paddle Australia, “all on-water activity involves a level of risks and hazards, most of which can be eliminated by thorough planning, good leadership skills and effective management.” (Source) The exact same can be said for open water fishing kayak adventures.
When we mention the term “open waters”, this refers to environments that aren’t enclosed within a bay, harbour, river, or port. Instead, we’re primarily referring to coastal and ocean waters. Therefore, kayaking on a smaller lake or an enclosed inlet is not our focus here.
Coastal waters and oceans bring a range of unique challenges to the table–challenges that you definitely don’t want to underestimate. Most notably, these include large waves, tides, wind, currents, and sharp rocks that may lie at the edge of the shore. The risks also rise exponentially in areas that are not patrolled by life savers.
Key Questions to Answer
Although the open water can be alluring, it’s really important not to rush into anything. If kayak fishing is high on your wishlist, start by considering all of the following questions first:
Are the Conditions Too Rough?
This is the number one question to ask before even thinking about loading your gear.
Check local weather forecasts, marine warnings, wind speeds and swell sizes. Even a seemingly mild offshore breeze can make it incredibly hard to return to shore. Be especially cautious of wind-against-tide conditions, which can quickly create messy, unstable waters. If the forecast mentions “strong wind warnings” or swells over 1.5 metres and you're not highly experienced, it's best to postpone.
Use apps like WillyWeather, Windy, or Seabreeze to get real-time updates, and always keep an eye on the sky. If you notice dark clouds forming or a sudden shift in wind direction, it’s time to head back in—no catch is worth your safety.
Am I Experienced Enough?
Paddling on open water is not the same as cruising on a lake or down a calm river. Coastal kayaking demands strong paddling skills, situational awareness, and the ability to react quickly to changing conditions.
Ask yourself:
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Can I confidently perform a deep-water re-entry if I capsize?
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Am I familiar with reading the ocean, including tides, swell directions, and rips?
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Do I understand how my kayak responds in windy or choppy conditions?
If you’re not there yet, that’s okay. Start in more controlled environments and gradually push your limits as your confidence and skill level grows. You can also take courses in kayak handling or open water safety through local paddling clubs or outdoor education providers.
Do I Own the Right Kayak?
Not all kayaks are suitable for open water adventures. For coastal or offshore fishing, you’ll want dedicated fishing kayaks that are long enough (usually over 3.5 metres), stable, and track well in the water.
Sit-on-top kayaks are generally preferred for open water because they’re self-draining and easier to re-enter if you fall out. Look for features like:
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A wide, v-shaped hull for stability and comfort while fishing
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Ample storage for tackle, safety gear, and fish
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A rudder for steering and better tracking in wind or current
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Pedal-drive systems if you want hands-free movement while casting or trolling
Do I need an electric motor?
Some fishing kayaks can have an electric motor fitted as an optional accessory. Advantages to this upgrade include:
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Increased fishing time and efficiency
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Reduced physical fatigue
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Easier to use in tidal flow, current and wind
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Extended range and speed
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Durability and efficiency
From the Australis Foxx to the Vibe Makana 100 and the Viking Profish 400, we’ve got a fantastic collection of fishing kayaks for sale in Australia. Browse through the collection now!
You can also read our recent article to learn all about the key differences between fishing kayaks and traditional kayaks.
The Viking Profish 400 - Available Now at PaddleZone
Is My Life Jacket Regulation and Properly Fitted?
This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many paddlers either skip the life jacket or wear one that doesn’t fit properly. Your life jacket (or PFD ‘personal flotation device’) is your single most important piece of safety gear.
For open water use, make sure it’s:
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Certified to Australian Standards (check for the AS4758.1 rating)
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Type 1 or Level 100+ if required by your local authority
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Designed specifically for paddling, so it won’t restrict your movement
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Correctly fitted and comfortable, as you may be wearing it for many hours
Never just strap it to the kayak—it must be worn at all times. Also, check that it has useful features like reflective strips, storage pockets for safety tools, and maybe even a built-in whistle or light.
Have I Taken the Right Precautions?
Smart preparation can mean the difference between a minor mishap and a serious emergency.
Before you launch: T.A.L.K.
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Tell someone where you're going and when you’ll be back.
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Avoid solo paddling in remote or rough conditions. Having a buddy makes all the difference and can be more fun..
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Log your trip with the local Marine Rescue service, if available.
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Know your limits, and don’t paddle further than you can comfortably return from.
Also, be aware of local hazards like reefs, sandbars, shipping channels, or marine protected zones where fishing is not allowed. Study maps, speak with locals, and keep a flexible plan so you can adapt to potentially changing conditions.
Finally, bring a means of communication, like a waterproof VHF radio or a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). Your mobile phone won’t always have reception on the open water.
Am I Bringing the Right Supplies?
The open sea can be unforgiving, so packing smart is crucial. Here's a breakdown of what you should never leave behind:
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Hydration and energy: Plenty of drinking water (more than you think you’ll need) and high-energy snacks to keep your focus sharp.
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Sun protection: A wide-brimmed hat, polarised sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and sun-protective clothing. The reflection off the water can be brutal.
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Safety gear: A whistle, head torch, knife (to cut lines or rope in an emergency), signal mirror, and possibly a flare for emergencies.
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Dry bag: With spare clothes, a towel, a phone (in a waterproof case), and important documents or IDs.
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Anchor or drift chute: To stabilise your kayak while fishing or resting.
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Paddle or Rod leash: Losing your paddle in open water can leave you stranded and in serious trouble and no one wants to lose their favourite rod
Am I Better Off Fishing Elsewhere?
There’s absolutely no shame in deciding to fish somewhere safer or more manageable. If you're feeling unsure, fatigued, under-equipped, or just don’t like the look of the water that day, the answer is as simple as finding a different location.
Estuaries, sheltered bays, and river mouths can still offer fantastic fishing opportunities, often with a lot less risk. And if you’ve got your heart set on the open ocean, consider joining a group paddle, hiring a local guide, or waiting for the perfect conditions.
The ocean will always be there, so it’s better to fish another day than push the limit too far and place yourself at risk!
The Vibe Makana 100 Pedal Drive Kayak - Pick One Up at PaddleZone
Fishing Kayaks & Accessories - Get Everything You Need at PaddleZone
Kayak fishing in open waters is an incredible experience, but it’s also a treacherous environment that comes with serious challenges. Respect the conditions, know your capabilities, and never cut corners when it comes to safety. With the right kayak, gear, and preparation, you’ll enjoy the freedom of the sea with confidence and peace of mind.
At PaddleZone, we’ve supplied high-quality kayaking gear to Australians for more than 20 years. From fishing kayaks to clothing, accessories, paddles, and safety equipment, we’ve got everything you need to make the next journey safe, enjoyable, and one to remember.
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