Family fun returns to Hooked on Bellarine
25 August 2026
The Bellarine Peninsula's premier fishing and seafood celebration is set to return this spring, with thousands expected to gather at Portarlington Safe Harbour Foreshore for the annual Hooked on Bellarine Festival on Sunday 4 October.
Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said the festival showcases the region's renowned fishing, boating, and aquaculture industries while offering a range of free activities and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
"Whether you're a keen angler, seafood lover or simply looking for a great family day out, there's something for everyone at this year's festival,” Mr Dowling said.
Hooked on Bellarine attracts both fishers and seafood lovers and includes pop-up stalls selling freshly cooked paella and locally made produce including the area’s famous blue mussels which are available to purchase.
There will also be free ‘come and try’ fishing clinics for kids as well as adults, complete with rods and bait provided, and a Fishing Swap Meet where you can donate, trade or pick up fishing equipment.
It’s a great opportunity for Grade 5 pupils across Victoria who received a free Little Angler Kit in the recent roll out to get into the great outdoors and try out their new fishing rod.
Hosted by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), the Hooked on Bellarine Festival complements the Victorian Government’s $96 million investment package to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture.
Kicking off at 9am and finishing at 2pm, this year’s festival is on the same day as the monthly Portarlington Makers Market, showcasing a range of artisans, makers and artists from local and regional areas, just a short stroll away at the Seniors Community Hall on Newcombe Street.
On the doorstep of Geelong and an easy drive from Melbourne, Hooked on Bellarine attracts nearly 5,000 people each year. If visitors don’t feel like driving, they can also take the ferry from Docklands to Portarlington and make a day of it.
Other festival attractions include:
- Kids activities from the VFA Education Team and Bellarine Catchment Network, fly fishing demonstrations, casting clinics, giveaways and selfies with VFA’s ‘Pinky the Snapper’ fish mascot
- Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating Network leaders sharing tips on how to improve catch rates for Bellarine species like King George whiting, calamari, snapper and gummy shark
- Seafood cooking and filleting demonstrations with recipes to try at home
- Anatomy displays and research information from the VFA Science team
- Our first Hooked on Bellarine fishing competition run by the Bellarine Pirates Angling Club. Lots of prizes up for grabs!
- Fishing simulator, kayak and boat displays, pop-up tackle store, Fishing Swap Meet and local angling clubs to meet
- Learn about aquaculture and try samples of barramundi and abalone
- Better Boating Victoria sharing updates on boat ramp projects across the state
- Aquatic ecology sessions from OzFish
- Emergency services hub with trucks from Victoria’s State Emergency Service (SES) and Country Fire Authority (CFA)
- Food hub and live music by local artists to relax and enjoy waterfront views
To learn more and book a spot in a free fishing clinic, visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/hookedonbellarine