Well, that’s a wrap for our 2023 Winter Fishing Program!
During the July school holidays, the Recreational Fisheries Engagement team, in conjunction with Fishcare volunteers, conducted fishing clinics at jetties and wharves across the state.
Despite the variability of Tassie’s winter weather, clinics were held at Bridport, Bellerive, Sandy Bay, St Helens, Clarence Point, Cremorne, Swansea and Stanley. Strong bookings saw over 180 participants plus family members attending the two-week program.
Participants at the Clarence Point Winter Fishing Clinic on the Tamar River
The sessions were aimed at promoting responsible recreational fishing to Tasmanians of all fishing abilities. Participants were taught fishing basics including rigging lines, catch care, fish biology and an introduction to general marine literacy. Mostly young fishers, they walked away from the sessions with a tackle box full of tips, courtesy of our experienced Fishcare Tasmania volunteers.
Recreational Fishing Engagement Officer Grace Bell demonstrates how to dehook a fish
Although winter sees a traditional lull in activity for many Tasmanian fishers, the fishing during the program was anything but quiet. Catches of mackerel, wrasse, sand flathead, mullet, barracouta and even a draughtboard shark kept everyone entertained and concentrating on their fishing line.
Landing fish at these clinics is a real treat as it provides the team with a perfect opportunity to demonstrate proper fish handling techniques and release methods. The fish were well looked after too - they received a free feed and were safely returned to the water.
Sessions ran for two-hours that were filled with laughter, excitement and smiles, all signs of a successful clinic. The team received plenty of praise from participants with one young family assuring us they would be visiting BCF on their way home!
A young fisher learns how to handle and release his catch from Recreational team member Tom Marr at the Stanley Clinic
A few reviews from our attendees!
We very much enjoyed the Clarence Point session. So much so that my daughter ran out and bought her own rod afterwards 😀. A big thanks to all involved in offering this opportunity.
We attended one of the Sandy Bay sessions and had a wonderful time! Thank you so much for putting these clinics on!
We’re already looking forward to our Summer Fishing Program. Be sure to join us if you feel like wetting a line!