Cast a line at free Ballarat fishing festival
31 July 2026
Families, young anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are being encouraged to head to Lake Wendouree on Saturday 5 September for the free Ballarat Fishing Festival.
Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said the annual event is packed with hands-on fishing activities, expert demonstrations and fish stocking to celebrate the opening of Victoria’s trout season in rivers.
Running from 9am to 2pm, the Ballarat Fishing Festival, now in its 11th year, will include a range of educational activities and even cooking demonstrations presented by MasterChef Australia Semi-Finalist Tim Bone to inspire home chefs.
"Lake Wendouree is one of Victoria's premier urban fisheries and provides the perfect setting for families and friends to get outside, learn new skills and give fishing a go,” Mr Dowling said.
"Whether you've never picked up a fishing rod before or you're already a keen angler, there's something for everyone at the Ballarat Fishing Festival with a range of free activities on offer.
“Youngsters will get the opportunity to learn from Fishcare volunteers about casting, rigs, bait selection, and other practical skills to help build confidence on the water.
“Festivalgoers can also take a free tour of the Ballarat Fish Acclimatisation Society hatchery, which has been raising trout in the region for more than 150 years
“Local fishing clubs will have freshwater boats on display and host fly-tying demonstrations including explanations about how hand-made flies imitate insect life in lakes and streams.
“We’ll be stocking catchable-size trout ready for the event and kids can also give our Snobs Creek hatchery crew a hand to release live fish on the day as well.
"The Ballarat Fishing Festival is all about bringing the community together and showcasing the many social, wellbeing and recreational benefits that fishing offers, so we’d love to see a big crowd at Lake Wendouree.
The event will be held at Windmill Drive on the lake’s western shoreline, close to the botanic gardens and other areas to explore.
For details about the 2026 Ballarat Fishing Festival visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/ballaratfishfest