Eildon Pondage Family Festival
Overcast and at times wet conditions didn't deter more than 270 children and their families attending the Eildon Pondage Family Fishing Festival last weekend, making it the biggest fishing event at Eildon Pondage in the ‘Go Fishing in Victoria’ initiative’s four year history.Families from Melbourne and many regional centres descended on Eildon to try their hands at catching some of the trout specially stocked for the day. Director of Fisheries Management with Fisheries Victoria, Travis Dowling said staff and angling club volunteers were kept busy with fish being caught regularly.
'Some children experienced the excitement of catching their first ever fish,' Mr Dowling said. 'A shuttle bus to the Freshwater Discovery Centre at DPI’s Snobs Creek facility was kept busy with many families taking the opportunity to tour the centre and view fish and other aquatic species. Family Fishing Festivals are held regularly at some of Victoria’s most popular fishing spots to attract a new generation to one of the most popular pastimes in Victoria. Those wishing to learn new skills of casting and knot tying can do so with help from experienced fishing volunteers.
'Many of the children not only tried their hands at fishing, but also had the opportunity to help release another 100 Premier sized (1kg) rainbow trout into Eildon Pondage.
'Recreational fishing generates tourism in regional Victoria and local traders said a number of people attending the event also took the opportunity to stay in the region for a break.'
Local fly fishing experts were kept busy demonstrating the art of fly tying, which engaged visitors young and old. Other attractions kept the whole family entertained, including Pirate Pete's balloon creations, mouth watering food from the chefs and singing and dancing at Flathead Fred's Fun Fishing Show.
The next Family Fishing Festival will be held in Gippsland, at Lake Hyland, on May 2.
For more information, please visit: www.dpi.vic.gov.au/gofishing
