Hook a new hobby at free Gone Fishing Day events
by Victorian Fisheries Authority 2 Oct 01:43 PDT
19 Oxtober 2025
Gone Fishing Day © Victorian Fisheries Authority
Newcomers to the pastime of fishing will get the chance to hook a new hobby at eight free events hosted by angling clubs and fishing organisations on Gone Fishing Day, Sunday 19 October.
Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said Gone Fishing Day is an annual event that celebrates the wonderful world of recreational fishing right across the country.
"Gone Fishing Day is the perfect opportunity to take out a friend, neighbour or relative who's always wanted to wet a line, but hasn't had the chance," Mr Dowling said.
"To help everyone give fishing a go on Gone Fishing Day we're making Sunday 19 October a day when a recreational fishing licence isn't required anywhere in Victoria.
"We're also supporting angling clubs with grants to host come-and-try fishing days from Portland in the west to Mildura up north and a few around Melbourne.
"Several clubs and fishing organisations have reeled in grants to help run the events, using revenue derived from the sale of fishing licences, to give beginners a great introductory experience, free of charge, on Gone Fishing Day.
"Angling clubs are the perfect hosts for these events because their members know the local waters, the fish species most likely to be encountered, and the tactics to net that catch of the day that could be a delicious meal on the family dinner table.
"And if participants want to pursue the hobby further, they can join the host club and enjoy all the benefits of being well connected to the local fishing scene," Mr Dowling said.
- King River, Glenrowan Recreation Reserve, King River & District Fishing Club
- Lake Marma, Murtoa Angling Club
- Portland town jetty (foreshore), Portland Sports Fishing Club
- Ess Lagoon, Casterton Angling Society
- Howqua Inlet, Lake Eildon, Howqua Angling Club
- Sandringham Foreshore, Sandringham Anglers Club
- Fisherman's Beach, Torquay Angling Club
- Kings Billabong, OzFish Unlimited
For people attending the Melbourne Boat Show on Gone Fishing Day there will be 30-minute fishing clinics from Fishcare between 10am and 3pm. Book online.
For more information, including event times and angling club contacts, visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/gonefishingday25.