Local recreational fishers have hundreds more reasons to wet a line, following the release of mature Rainbow Trout broodstock from the State’s re-stocking program into Ben Chifley Dam near Bathurst today.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole was on hand for the stocking event at The Lagoon and said it was great news for local anglers.
“These Rainbow trout are part of the State’s re-stocking program to keep our local waterways full of healthy fish,” Mr Toole said.
“At around 70 centimetres long, and some even weighing up to 4 kilograms, our region’s passionate fishos might have a tough time reeling them in.
“This is a nod to those anglers who I know are so excited to see fish populations flourish with not just these Rainbow trout, but also Brown trout.
“The State’s fisheries experts have chosen to stock Ben Chifley Dam because it has one of the best environments for these fish to grow and is an ideal location, right in our backyard.”
Mr Toole said the fish came from the State Government’s Dutton Trout Hatchery, which produces more than 1.6 million trout each year – around 1.3 million Rainbow Trout and 300,000 Brown Trout fry and fingerlings.
“The NSW Government is committed to supporting the State’s valuable recreational fishing sector, and as both the Member for Bathurst and a member of the NSW Nationals it brings me great joy to give anglers great catches,” Mr Toole said.
“These fish are stocked in streams and impoundments throughout the Central Tablelands to support our fantastic trout fisheries and all the benefits that trout fishing offers.”
Mr Toole said that in conjunction with the Gaden Trout Hatchery at Jindabyne, this is part of the Government’s overall stocking program of more than two million trout and salmon produced each year.
Recreational fishers are reminded that they are required to carry a NSW current recreational fishing fee receipt at all times while fishing. Recreational fishers are encouraged to use the NSW Recreational Fishing Guide, available from DPI Fisheries Offices, most tackle shops or online at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au
