On 12 March 2023, a redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis) was caught by an angler in Mountain River, in the Huon Valley. It was reported to and confirmed by the IFS.

Before this report, redfin perch had not been found in this river, or in the Huon Valley.

Extensive surveys have now been completed including farm dams, rivers, and creeks in the area. Only one other redfin perch has been captured in a small creek.

The IFS wants your help to find the source of this population, as early detection is important to help inform future management options.

The brown trout opening season is just a few days away (Saturday 3 August 2024), so if you are heading out for a fish in the Huon Valley region, please keep an eye out for these pest fish!

If you think you’ve seen, found, or caught a redfin perch, please take clear photos of it, or if it is dead already, collect the carcass and store in a freezer.

Please take note of the location where it was found, as well as the date, and contact the IFS promptly on 1300 INFISH or infish@ifs.tas.gov.au.

Redfin perch are an invasive species which were introduced to Tasmania in the 1860s, and are now established in many areas of the state. Due to their aggressive nature, and ability to reproduce rapidly and overpopulate water bodies, they pose a threat to our native fish and trout.

Thank you for your assistance in protecting your waterways!