A cold start hasn’t dampened the spirits of many anglers looking to bag their first trout of the 2015/16 season.  Fisheries Officers patrolled waters across the state, including the North West and far North East, Central Plateau and Southern districts.  341 anglers were inspected across more than 30 waters with Fisheries Officers very pleased with the general level of compliance with Inland Fisheries and Marine & Safety legislation.  Despite the cold conditions at most waters there were plenty of smiling fishermen happy to chat and share their experiences.

In excess of 70 quality brown and rainbow trout were inspected by Fisheries Officers over the opening weekend, with many more seen coming aboard boats and into landing nets.  The most notable catches came from Four Springs Lagoon, Pet Dam, the River Derwent, Pioneer Dam and the waters of the Brady’s chain.  It was pleasing to see dedicated anglers getting reward for their effort across the wide range of productive waters on offer.  Well-conditioned fish were seen to respond to a variety of methods, particularly at Four Springs Lagoon where bait, lure and fly were all productive.

Several offences were detected involving unlicensed fishing, unattended set rods and excess lines.  Fisheries Officers issued 1 infringement and 4 conditional caution notices in relation to these offences.

Anglers are reminded that an angling licence is required to fish in inland waters and it is necessary to be within 8 metres of your fishing equipment, with it being visible at all times.

Anyone who suspects or witnesses unlawful fishing activity is urged to contact Stephen Hepworth, Manager (Compliance and Operations) at the Inland Fisheries Service on 0438 338 530 as soon as possible.

Mark Asplin

Fisheries Officer - Liawenee