Trout season opens this long weekend 2 October

Member for Bathurst, Paul Toole and Minister Adam Marshall in Lake Wallace holding trout to be released

The State’s fishers can celebrate the long weekend out on the water with the official opening of the NSW trout season tomorrow, Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said today.

After the dry conditions and terrible bushfires of last year, Mr Marshall said that recent winter rain means there are now many popular fishing spots and waterways in prime condition to fish for trout.

“Given the harsh conditions across much of the State over the past few years, many streams and rivers were experiencing well below average flows,” Mr Marshall said.

“But the widespread and welcomed rain we’ve received lately has improved those flows, and we are now expecting fishers to flock to their favourite spots for the opening of the trout season this weekend.

“From the great divide in the northern and central regions of NSW, to the Snowy Mountains in the south, anglers can cast a line and try to reel in this Aussie favourite.”

Mr Marshall said that many rivers and streams across NSW have benefited from the NSW Government’s fish stocking program, with approximately 1.2 million trout released into waterways since July.

“The NSW Government has committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of our fish species, and these benefits are now coming to fruition,” Mr Marshall said.

“Even better news is that we plan to stock a total of 2.8 million trout over the coming season, which would not only secure fish populations, but also boost both the recreational fishing industry and the regional communities home to these waterways.”

Mr Marshall reminded anglers to check they have a current and valid NSW Recreational Fishing Licence prior to fishing this weekend.

“Fishing laws are designed to protect, conserve and share our fisheries resources for all legitimate users and our future generations,” Mr Marshall said.

Information on freshwater fishing rules can be found in the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide from DPI Fisheries offices, at fishing licence agents and bait and tackle shops, and online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing

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