Freshwater learn to fish workshop for youngsters

Keen young anglers and would-be anglers in the Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, New England and Grafton areas who want to search for a trout when the season opens next month have an early chance to learn some skills.

The Recreational Fishing Trust and Department of Primary Industries will stage a workshop at the Dutton Trout Hatchery at Ebor on 17 September.

Children aged 8 to 14 years will have the chance to learn fishing techniques, bag and size limits, and ethical fishing practices, as well as casting, knots and rigs.

“They’ll also learn about aquatic habitats and threatened species,” said Northern Region Fisheries Education Officer Mark Asquith.

“They might even catch a big one and be the envy of their family and friends.”

Mr Asquith said fishing workshops were run around the state as part of the NSW Government’s commitment to teach children about recreational fishing and conservation.

“During the afternoon session youngsters will put their new skills into action by fishing for trout in a dam at the hatchery, and they’ll be able to compete for prizes,” Mr Asquith said.

“Each child will be given fishing gear, including a rod, reel, hooks, swivels and lures, and a cap and shirt, to take home.”

Mr Asquith said the enjoyment of the day was not confined to the young fishers.

“Many of the grandparents and parents who attend these days with the youngsters appreciate that they are receiving proper education on how and where to fish,” Mr Asquith said.

The fishing workshop will be held at the Dutton Trout Hatchery, Point Lookout Road, Ebor, from 10am-3pm on Saturday, 17 September 2005.

The cost is $40 a child, including a BBQ lunch.

To book a place, telephone 02 6775 9139 by Friday 16 September 2005.

Media contact: Howard Spencer 02 6656 8800 or mobile 0428 696 672