From 1–3 May, the Recreational Fishing Team welcomed thousands of people through the popular Fishing Hub at Agfest in Northern Tasmania.
Fishing Hub Site at Agfest 2025
With an overarching theme of ‘Fish for the Future’, the hub focused on the roles of government, industry, science, and the community in ensuring the sustainability of our fish stocks for generations to come.
Fisheries Manager Jakob Fries talking to Agfest visitors about recreational fishing rules and management.
We showcased fishing opportunities and techniques in Tasmania and educated fishers on how to catch, fillet, and cook a ‘mixed bag’ of some of our most underrated species, including Blue Mackerel, Mullet, Leatherjacket, and Australian Salmon. Live demonstrations ran throughout each day, and freshly prepared samples were eagerly devoured by patrons — including Centro urchins!
Marine Industries Engagement Officer Susie Cretan and Fishing Engagement Facilitator Glen Saltmarsh cooking freshly filleted Blue Mackerel for visitors to taste test.
A number of expert partners joined us in the hub, including Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies lead researchers in Scalefish and Longspined Sea Urchins, Marine Police, Inland Fisheries, and the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation. They engaged visitors in conversations on topics ranging from scientific research to careers and compliance on and in the water.
Aquaculture specialists from NRE Tas, Biosecurity Tasmania, and IMAS shared insights into how aquaculture is regulated in Tasmania, the species being farmed, innovative products being developed, and ongoing research into the impacts of fish farming. Patrons even had the opportunity to drive an ROV underwater and learn how ROVs and drones are used for aquaculture regulation and compliance.
Other displays addressed key topics such as Rock Lobster catch reporting, marine heatwaves, sardine research, best practices in fish handling to increase survival rates, and efforts to rebuild Sand Flathead populations.
Fish for the Future stall at Agfest 2025.
Kids had a blast on the game-fishing simulators and at the magnet pools, where they learned how to measure, release, and identify different species. A live interactive reef tank drew crowds, featuring rock lobster, urchins, flathead, flounder, and various other fish species.
CSIRO conducted a survey of 266 visitors to the Fishing Hub, providing valuable feedback on how we can better engage and educate the community. While satisfaction scores averaged 9.9/10, we’re already planning exciting new features for next year!