Fishy business could pay off as government splashes cash
Not all the trout in Tasmania’s rivers and lakes are the same: land a winner and you’ll be in the money. HERE’S WHERE TO CATCH THEM >>
Tasmania
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WETTING a line in Tasmania’s lakes and rivers could become a more lucrative affair after brown trout are released with prices on their heads — or dorsal fins to be more exact.
Catching one of the 50 tagged fish will be worth $2000 for a lucky angler.
Last year, five tagged trout worth $10,000 were released. Only one was caught: 12-year-old Fiona Batterham landed the lucky fish on October 18 at Lake Rowallan.
The bounty on the other four has now expired.
Primary Industries and Water Minister Guy Barnett said Government was delivering on a commitment to further stimulate the recreational trout fishery and boost tourism into regional communities.
“There has never been a better time to be a Tasmanian angler and the rewards of trout fishing this season are greater than ever,” he said.
“Tasmania’s world class inland fishery attracts more than 24,000 licensed anglers and generates about $90 million, much of this in regional communities.
“The Tasmanian Government decided to double the potential prize pool to $100,000 and increase the number of waters to encourage people to try fishing, making it easier for anglers to try their luck and also encourage anglers to visit different waters.”
Laurie Harrison from the New Norfolk Anglers Club said angling was one of the biggest sporting activities in the state, with 24,000 licences issued last year.
“There was only five locations last year where you could fish, there’s 15 this year, so a lot more areas where people can actually go to,” he said.
“All I’m hoping is some of our juniors get out there get on the water and catch that trout — because that’s what it’s all about.
Mr Barnett released three of the tagged fish in the Derwent at New Norfolk on Tuesday — they were last seen near the rowing club about 1.30pm if that’s any help.
The fish will be placed in:
- Arthurs Lake (5),
- yingina/Great Lake (5),
- Lake Mackintosh (5),
- Lake Pedder (5), Lake Burbury (5),
- Lake Rosebery (5),
- River Derwent (3),
- Derby’s Briseis Mine Hole (2),
- Bronte Lagoon (2),
- Craigbourne Dam (2),
- Curries River Reservoir (2),
- Huntsman Lake (2), Lake Leake (3),
- Lake Parangana (2)
- Lake Rowallan (2).
All the details of the competition — including season opening dates — are available via the Inland Fisheries website: ifs.tas.gov.au
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