Get Hooked Fishing Workshop on the Central Coast

Ettalong’s Beach Reserve will host Industry & Investment NSW’s Get Hooked…It’s Fun to Fish program tomorrow, when students from across the region get a chance to put their fishing knowledge and skills to the test.

“Get Hooked…It’s Fun to Fish is a program funded by the Recreational Fishing Trusts, encouraging children to take an active role in the management of waterways and fish stocks,” Industry & Investment (I&I) NSW recreational fishing schools fisheries manager, Louise Roberts, said.

“The program plays an important role in ensuring the State’s aquatic resources are enjoyed now and in the future, by teaching primary school aged children safe and responsible fishing practices, the significance of aquatic life and life cycles, and the importance of sustaining a quality fish habitat.

“During the course of the year, the students have been studying the program’s 6 codes: take only what you need, fish with friends, you’re the solution to water pollution, throw the little ones back, don’t leave your tackle behind and quality catchments equal quality fish.

“And now that the students have finished the in-class component and gained their fishing passport, they’ll get the opportunity to wet their lines during hands-on fishing workshops in the waters off Ettalong Beach Reserve tomorrow.”

Ninety Students from Ettalong Public School will participate in the workshops, learning 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.

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

“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 Australia’s favourite pastimes,” Ms Roberts said.

“Four local dedicated volunteers will be on hand during the day, imparting their experience and skills onto the budding anglers of tomorrow.

“This program is one of many initiatives funded by the NSW Government’s Recreational Fishing Trusts to improve fishing across the state.”

The workshops will be held at Ettalong Beach Reserve, Ettalong on December 8 from 9.15am – 2pm.

For more information visit the Get Hooked…It’s Fun to Fish page.

Further reading

Freshwater fishing guide 2009

Saltwater fishing guide 2009