Catch a fish these school holidays

by Alyssa Fitzgerald on 15 Dec 2010 Keen young anglers looking for a bit of excitement and fun this school holidays can learn more about recreational fishing at the one of the fishing workshops to be held by Industry & Investment NSW (I&I NSW) during the school holidays.

I&I NSW Education Officer, Brett Smith, said the fishing workshops would give children aged between 8 and 14 years the chance to learn basic fishing skills.

'Youngsters will also learn about recreational fishing rules and regulations, sustainable fishing practices, native and introduced fish species and aquatic habitats,' Mr Smith said.

'The I&I NSW hatchery workshops provide participants with the opportunity to put their new skills into action when they fish in a pond specially stocked to improve their chances of a good catch.

'The fishing workshop program is assisted by local Fishcare volunteers, who are instrumental in the running of the program across NSW and are essential in teaching the next generation of anglers about one of Australia’s favorite pastimes.'

The one day workshops will be held throughout the school holidays at the following locations:

Hatchery Workshop - Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Buckingbong Road, off the Sturt Highway on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 January from 10am to 3pm. To book telephone (02) 6958 8200 by Thursday 24 December before 10am.

Saltwater Workshop - Spencer Park, Merimbula (near the Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club) on Friday 14 January from 10am to 2pm. To book telephone Stephen Thurstan on (02) 4295 1809 or 0438 245 190.

Hatchery Workshop - Gaden Trout Hatchery, Jindabyne on Friday 21 & Saturday 22 January from 10am to 2pm. To book telephone Stephen Thurstan on (02) 4295 1809 or 0438 245 190.

Numbers are limited for the workshops and bookings are essential.

Mr Smith said the fishing workshops program is funded by the NSW Government using funds from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust, to improve fishing across the state.

'Every year $50,000 from the Trust is allocated to providing community engagement fishing workshops as part of the Government commitment to teaching children about sustainable recreational fishing and habitat conservation,' Mr Smith said.

'Each workshop costs $40 a child, which includes a quality rod and reel, tackle box, shirt, hat and a bbq lunch.'

Participants should bring plenty of sunscreen and wear enclosed footwear.

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