Victorian Fisheries Authority chief executive Travis Dowling said Gone Fishing Day was an annual event celebrating 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, October 19 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 received grants to help run their events, using revenue 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,” Mr Dowling said.
“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.”
This year’s participating clubs include Howqua Inlet, Lake Eildon, Howqua Angling Club; 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; Sandringham Foreshore, Sandringham Anglers Club; Fisherman’s Beach, Torquay Angling Club and Kings Billabong — OzFish Unlimited.
For those attending the Melbourne Boat Show on Gone Fishing Day, Fishcare will run 30-minute fishing clinics between 10am and 3pm. Bookings can be made online.
For more information, including event times and club contacts, visit vfa.vic.gov.au/gonefishingday25
