Recreational anglers can look forward to better fishing opportunities across the state thanks to 17 new projects, worth more than $1 million.
The new projects complement the Andrews Labor Government’s Target One Million plan for recreational fishing, which aims to get more people fishing, more often by growing participation to one million anglers by 2020.
The projects are funded using revenue derived from the sale of recreational fishing licences. This practice is widely supported by anglers who want their fees to go towards better facilities, better knowledge and better fishing.
A great family pastime, recreational fishing contributes $2.3 billion to our social and economic well-being.
The new projects will improve recreational fishing opportunities for beginners and experts alike, whether they fish in lakes, rivers, bays or offshore.
They include nine fishing platforms to improve land-based access for anglers, with five to be built on the Wimmera River, two on the Gellibrand River and one each at Lake Tyers and the Aire River.
Fishing platforms provide a safe and stable environment from which families, beginners and those less mobile can cast a line and enjoy time together in the great outdoors.
Two fish habitat projects will provide more homes for native fish including one along Pyramid Creek and another in Lake Tchum where the Birchip and District Angling Club will re-snag sections of the lake to make the most of golden perch stockings by Fisheries Victoria.
Keen trout anglers will be happy to hear that the Bendigo and District Fly Fishers is set to receive funding to investigate the apparent decline of the stocked trout fishery in Barkers Creek Reservoir at Harcourt.
Other research will involve a study to better understand kingfish population structures along Victoria’s coast and a three year project to implement best-practise management for Murray cod fisheries, including an evaluation of changed slot limits introduced last year.
For a full list of the 17 new projects visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“We’re investing in better facilities, better knowledge, and better fishing opportunities for our anglers.”
“By improving fishing opportunities we will increase the number of recreational fishers to one million, creating jobs, supporting local businesses and strengthening our rural and regional communities.”
“These projects complement our Target One Million plan for recreational fishing and ensure a bright future for this popular pastime in Victoria.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020