Fourth annual trout conference comes to Melbourne

22 May 2018

Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said the conference brings together anglers and fisheries scientists to share findings from research conducted on riverine trout populations during the last four years.

"The conference is funded by fishing licence fees and the State Government's Target One Million plan for recreational fishing, which is investing a record $46 million aims to get more people fishing, more often," Mr Dowling said.

"Speakers include world experts in fisheries research and management along with fishing tips to improve your success from well-known gurus Rex Hunt, Philip Weigall and Mark Gercovich.

"The conference is open to everyone who wants to learn and celebrate our trout fisheries.

"Jim Fredericks, Chief of Fisheries at the Idaho Department of Fish & Game, will provide the keynote address about trout fisheries management in several famous American streams including the Henry's Fork and South Fork Snake River.

"Idaho's trout fisheries are amongst the best in the world so it will be wonderful to hear from someone with so much experience."

Other conference topics will include:

• spawning success in 12 wild trout rivers,
• two stocking trials in the upper Goulburn and Howqua rivers,
• incubator stocking trials, and 
• how anglers can get more involved in improving habitat, both in-stream and along river banks.

Mr Dowling said conference attendees would also hear about record fish stocking of more than 6 million over the last 12 months, which delivers on a key Target One Million commitment.

"On the lighter side, Rex Hunt will provide an entertaining talk on his personal trout fishing journey over several decades, much of which revolves around Victorian lakes and rivers including the Goulburn.

"Phillip Weigall will share some flyfishing secrets to improve your catch rates while lure casting expert Mark Gercovich will talk tactics on tackling Victoria's southwest trout rivers like the Merri and Hopkins.

A panel discussion will follow each of the three sessions with questions from the audience.

The conference will be held at the Darebin Arts & Entertainment Centre, Cnr Bell St and St Georges Rd, Preston. between 9.30am and 4.30pm.Tea and coffee will be available and lunch will be provided.

Learn more about the day, including how to register for free, at www.vfa.vic.gov.au/talktrout