Central West students will put their knowledge to the test, hook, line and sinker, in their first fishing trip as part of a NSW Government initiative, Industry and Investment (I&I) NSW State Coordinator, Dee McElligott, said today.

"Get Hooked...Its Fun to Fish is an I&I NSW program, encouraging children to take an active role in the management of waterways and fish stocks," Ms McElligott said.

"During the course of the program, primary school students are introduced to freshwater fishing, the significance of aquatic like and life-cycles, catch & release skills, the importance of sustaining a quality fish habitat while practicing safe and responsible fishing behaviours.

"The program is coming to a close for 2009, and now that students have completed the in-class component and gained their fishing passport, they are attending a hands-on fishing workshop to put all of the theory learnt in class into practice."

More than 56 schools across NSW are registered in the program.

At the workshops students will learn the practical aspects of fishing including rod and reel basics, knots and rigs, bait selection and identification, casting skills, fish identification, fishing regulations and catch and release techniques.

Six schools from Dubbo and Blayney region will participate over the three days. Teachers have reported that the students are excited about the chance to wet a line during the workshop, sessions will be held in the morning from 9.30am and the afternoon session from 12pm.

The workshop will be held at Sandy Beach Park, Dubbo on October 27 and 28 and Carcoar Dam on October 30.

"The Get Hooked program is assisted by Fishcare volunteers, who have been instrumental in the success of this program, teaching the next generation of kids about one of Australias favourite pastimes," Ms McElligott said.

"These volunteers will be on hand over the three days, imparting their experience and skills onto the budding anglers of tomorrow.

"This program is one of many initiatives funded by the NSW Governments Recreational Fishing Trusts to improve fishing across the state.

"The program plays an important role in ensuring the States freshwater resources are enjoyed now and in the future."

For more information on the program, visit the Get hooked...It's fun to fish page.

Media contact: Sarah McGregor 0427 075 167