Managing the trout fishery

Trout Allocation Committee meeting in Sydney, 21 May © RFA of NSW

Every year, DPI hatchery managers, researchers and fisheries managers meet with volunteers from the NSW trout fishing sector to finalise stocking plans for fish produced at the Dutton and Gaden Trout Hatcheries.

This process ensures that key trout fisheries continue to provide quality fishing opportunities. As well as assessing stocking numbers, sizes and locations, the annual Trout Allocation Committee meeting helps ensure the state's trout fishery is responsibly and sustainably managed.

Prior to approval, all trout stocking activities are assessed by DPI to mitigate any potential impacts on threatened species and ecological communities. This process ensures trout stocking activities conform with relevant legislation. Stocking permits are not issued if proposals do not meet strict approvals criteria.

Meanwhile, the past few trout seasons have been amongst the best on record, with favourable conditions and plenty of rainfall meaning most NSW trout waters are producing good numbers of fish. Indications are the next season will be just as productive.