Keen young anglers looking for a bit of excitement and fun this school holidays can learn more about recreational fishing at two NSW Department Primary Industries (NSW DPI) inland fishing workshops during the school holidays.

The fishing workshop program is one of many initiatives implemented by the NSW Government using funds from the Recreational Fishing Trusts to improve fishing opportunities across the State.

NSW DPI Education Officer, Stephen Thurstan, said the fishing workshops would give children aged between 8 and 14 years the chance to learn basic fishing skills.

“Youngsters will also learn about recreational fishing rules and regulations, sustainable fishing practices, native and introduced fish species and aquatic habitats,” Mr Thurstan said.

The workshops will be held on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 January at the Gaden Trout Hatchery in Jindabyne from 10am to 2pm.

“The NSW Government’s Gaden Trout Hatchery, on the Thredbo River, is one of Australia’s main centres for breeding and rearing cold water sport fish and is the ideal place for community groups to learn more about freshwater fishing,” he said.

“Children will get the chance to put their new skills into action when they fish in a pond specially stocked with hungry rainbow trout between one and two kilograms.

“Kids will be able to enjoy their catch as they are allowed to take home one fish each.

“The fishing workshop program is assisted by local Fishcare Volunteers, who are instrumental in the running of the program across NSW and are essential in teaching the next generation of anglers about one of Australia’s favorite pastimes.”

Each workshop costs $40 a child, which includes a quality rod and reel, tackle box, shirt, hat and a BBQ lunch.

Parents are encouraged to ensure children participating have plenty of sunscreen, bring along a drink bottle for water and wear enclosed footwear.

Numbers are limited to a maximum of 30 children a day and bookings are essential.

Bookings: Stephen Thurstan, NSW DPI (02) 4295 1809 or 0438 245 190 or email stephen.thurstan@industry.nsw.gov.au

More information on the program.

Media contact: Lyndall Hilder on (02) 6391 3686 or 0409 383 423

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