Stocking of freshwater fish is commonly used to replenish fish stocks in areas where there have been declines or to enhance recreational fishing opportunities at popular angling locations. Almost 50 million fish have been stocked into waterways of south-eastern Australia since 1980. Each year, angling clubs, government departments and community groups spend thousands of dollars stocking fish, but little information exists on how effective these activities are at replenishing or maintaining fish numbers.

NSW DPI is currently undertaking research to determine when and how many fish should be stocked in order to efficiently establish or maintain recreational fisheries. The new research initiative will focus on native fish species and the effect of introduced fish on stocking survival.

The contents of this Primefact include the following:

• Background
• When and where to stock fish
• What are we doing? (includes planned study sites)
• How will this work help?
• Who is involved?
• Further information