Our fishing could hook plenty more

FISHING is a way of life in Townsville and North Queensland and the weather gods have been smiling, finally, on the region’s avid anglers.

So much so that people have been fishing out wide and forgot to let people know when they’re coming home, sparking fervent and expensive searches by the authorities.

It’s great to see people out and about fishing but they should be more aware of the dangers they put others in by not telling them what’s going on or getting themselves into unnecessary trouble.

There’s plenty of risk and danger to being out in the ocean, it is very unforgiving.

There has been more than 25 search and rescues in the past four weeks, way too many.

Every time the coast guard is called out to an incident it costs $ 1000 — that’s seriously expensive.

With this weekend again looking perfect for boaties, both weather- wise and with plenty of fish around, let’s hope people take notice and stay safe on the water.

But the thing to realise in the story is maybe there is a missed opportunity here. Townsville has some of the highest boat ownership in Queensland and how well do we market the amazing fishing opportunities here?

Yes, hundreds of people in the know come to North Queensland to fish but imagine if some more creative thinking went into selling it.

There are not many places you have the opportunity of heading not that far offshore to bag a prized catch and even when the weather is not playing ball you can hit the creeks and chase iconic barramundi — maybe don’t mention the crocodiles to southern tourists — but we can promote Townsville better as a fishing destination.

Just ask any angler – if there’s a chance of catching a fish, price and expense is not a problem.