Funding To Reel In Recreational Fishers

Gone Fishing Day is back on October 9. Recreational fishers across the State will band together on Gone Fishing Day with activities and fishing workshops to reel in keen, new fishers to the hobby.

Funding grants of up to $2000 are available to help fishing clubs make their event one to remember.

Local fisherman and member of Young District Anglers Association, Snow Woods said Gone Fishing Day was a great idea. “We put on a day for the kids out at Chinaman’s Dam every February,” Mr Woods said.

“We put on a sausage sizzle and drinks. We had 79 kids for the day, and 50-odd fish caught for the day.”

Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke encouraged fishing clubs and organisations in the region to host Gone Fishing Day.

“The series of events offers something for everyone, from workshops that teach beginners how to hook a fish to activities that help veteran freshwater anglers sharpen their skills,” Ms Cooke said.

“The grants can be used to purchase fishing gear, bait, food and drinks or hire equipment to assist in holding an event for Gone Fishing Day.”

“Gone Fishing Day packages are also up for grabs as part of the grants which will put rods, reels, bags and giveaways into the hands of our local fishing clubs.”

The Department of Primary Industries will also host free community fishing events throughout NSW to encourage everyone to wet a line. NSW Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders said Gone Fishing Day was back by popular demand.

“Every year, fishers young and old, get involved, and I’m looking forward to seeing our fishers in rural and regional areas turn out to make the 2022 Gone Fishing Day the biggest and best one yet,” Mr Dugald said.

“Application forms and grant funding guidelines are now on the DPI website, so if your local fishing club wants to get involved, then get your submission in now.”

The NSW recreational fishing industry’s one million anglers pump $3.4 billion into the economy each year.

Grant applications are open until Tuesday, September 6. Head to www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/go-fishing-nsw for grant funding guidelines and application forms.

Gone Fishing Day is a national initiative organised by the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation, with activities in NSW supported by the Recreational Fishing Trust and DPI.

• Topics:

• Fishing
• Grant / Funding