The Andrews Labor Government is giving newcomers to recreational fishing a chance to reel in a new hobby this spring with five free introductory clinics to be held across the state.
Minister for Fishing and Boating Sonya Kilkenny and Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards today visited Casey Fields Lake in Cranbourne East – which will be one of the locations to host the VicFishKids and Fishing For All clinics.
The other clinics will be held in Lilydale, Seymour, Shepparton and Bendigo, and come as part of the Labor Government’s $35 million Go Fishing Victoria plan, to get more people fishing more often.
VicFishKids events are designed especially for children keen to learn the basics in a safe and supported environment with help from experts.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) Ambassador Lee Rayner will join Fisheries Officers and the Education Team to chat with participants and share tip and tricks.
VicFishKids events are run with the help of local fishing clubs and Fishcare, ensuring participants learn from experienced fishers about knots, casting, bait selection and what to do when they land their first fish.
Catchable size rainbow trout from the VFA’s Snobs Creek hatchery will be stocked prior, improving anglers’ chances of success. Children who pre-register for clinics will receive a free fishing rod to take home, with 120 up for grabs at each event.
There will also be filleting and cooking demonstrations and tips on how and where to catch your target species.
VicFishKids events run from 10am to 4pm at the following locations:
- Lilydale Lake in Lilydale – Sunday, 11 September
- Goulburn Park in Seymour – Sunday, 18 September
- Casey Fields Lake in Cranbourne East – Saturday, 15 October
Fishing For All clinics are open to people of all ages and abilities and will run from 10am to 4pm at the following locations:
- Kennington Reservoir in Bendigo – Sunday, 2 October
- Victoria Lake in Shepparton – Sunday, 22 October
Fishing For All clinics are open to people of all ages and abilities and will run from 10am to 4pm at Kennington Reservoir and Victoria Lake, both of which will be stocked. Register at
More information on both event series can be found at vfa.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Fishing and Boating Sonya Kilkenny
“These free introductory fishing clinics are a terrific way to help children give fishing a go for the first time in a safe and educational environment with help from experts.”
“Recreational fishing provides the perfect opportunities for people to get outside and spend time with friends and family.”
As stated by Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards
“It’s great to have these free introductory fishing clinics located so close to home – including in Cranbourne East – so families and kids can try fishing and enjoy time together outdoors.”
