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Golden Tag Fish Still Up For Grabs At Kings Billabong

14 June 2022

Recreational fishers still have a chance to try their luck at catching a Golden Tag fish at Kings Billabong near Mildura.

Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne today visited the waterway, which has been stocked with tagged silver perch, golden perch and Murray cod – many of which are still uncaught.

The Golden Tag competition commenced in February 2020 to encourage people to get out on the water and wet a line in their favourite spot, as well as boost recreational fishing tourism.

Nearly 150 people have already won cash prizes of $2,000 and $10,000 for catching a tagged fish as part of the competition, which has been extended until the end of the year.

Kings Billabong has become a popular destination for fishers, as well as kayakers and canoeists who paddle its scenic shores, often with a fishing rod aboard to cast a lure or bait. Redfin, yabbies and even catfish are known to reside in the billabong alongside the three stocked native species.

It’s also one of nearly 220 lakes and rivers across the state to recently share in the record-breaking stocking effort of 10 million fish – as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $35 million Go Fishing Victoria plan to get more people fishing, more often.

To help shore fishers make the most of the billabong and get beyond bankside vegetation, two fishing platforms were built by the Mallee Catchment Management Authority (CMA) in 2019 thanks to a $90,000 grant from Go Fishing Victoria. Canoe launches have also been installed.

More information about the Golden Tag competition can be found online at:  vfa.vic.gov.au/goldentagExternal Link .

Quotes attributable to Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne

“It’s great to see the Golden Tag competition and our record fish stocking effort of 10 million reaching far into the corners of Victoria – including here at Kings Billabong near Mildura – which has become a popular destination for fishers, kayakers and canoeists.”

“The competition has so far been a huge success at encouraging people to visit these waterways – while also having the chance to win big and supporting local businesses across the state.”

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp

“Kings Billabong is a great spot for fishers and families to cast a line for a chance of winning some cash prizes as part of the competition.”

Reviewed 14 June 2022

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