Stocks get a timely top up
Good to see some spring weather with us at last. This means anglers can now get out and get among some fantastic fishing.
The announcement by the Inland Fisheries Service that Craigbourne Dam in the south had received an injection of 130 Atlantic salmon weighing on average 1.2kg, last week, was just the shot in the arm recreational fishers needed.
This combined with news that more waterways will be stocked throughout the state by Tassal over the coming weeks, has got a lot of anglers looking forward to a salmon fest very soon.
Tagged trout are what a lot of anglers are vying for and while it’s not my cup of tea, good on those who are trying or have tried. Waters that have given up some tagged fish worth $2000 so far are – Huntsman Dam, Briseis Mine
Hole, Craigbourne Dam, Lake Leake, and the River Derwent. These waters and others still have a number of the orange tagged brown trout still available. For those seeking the peace and quiet and solitude of good spots, the tagged fish competition could be just what the doctor ordered, as many were released in some of the state’s most tranquil, idyllic locations – perfect for a relaxing day out fishing.
Spring rains mean that waters will still be high up in paddocks and holes will be full of debris and food, all being sought by hungry trout. Match your bait or lure to what’s flowing in and you should have
luck. Many are asking what’s a good coloured lure for dirty water and I’d suggest chartreuse colours in yellow or hot pink, failing that, a black lure will be a standout.
Do you have a fishing spot in saltwater that may need some attention?
Would you like to see a
night light or perhaps a fish cleaning table in your spot? Well, the state government has announced that Better Fishing Grants are now available for worthwhile projects around the state, and now is the chance for you to submit a proposal for possible inclusion in the funding. The scheme runs from August 12 until October 7, 2021.
This round of the Better Fishing Grants seeks proposals to provide, upgrade or retrofit facilities and equipment that enhance recreational marine fishing access or quality of experience. Equipment may include fishing gear, safety gear or auxiliary equipment that improves access to fishers of all abilities. Facilities may include: Pontoons, jetties or other structures installed or upgraded for recreational fishing, fish cleaning tables, bins (including composting bins for fish waste and fishing line dispensers), tables, shelters and lighting. Other amenities for consideration include – toilets near fishing facilities, paths, steps, walkways or other access routes to fishing locations as well as other facilities directly associated with recreational fishing.
Groups and individuals are encouraged to apply and this can be done by visiting https:// dpipwe.tas.gov.au/Documents/Better-Fishing-GrantsGuide%20for %20Applicants.pdf
In other good news for recreational fishers, namely those who chase lobster, the season has been announced by sea fisheries and this year will open on the weekend of November 6, 2021.
The East Coast Stock rebuilding zone will open on December 4.
A reminder too, that some squid fishing areas will close soon, Upper South East Coast waters including Great Oyster Bay and Mercury Passage from October 15 to November 14 inclusive each year and 2021: Tasmania’s North coast will be closed from October 1-31, 2021 inclusive from Cape Grim east to Cape Naturaliste.