Free Ballarat Fishing Festival to hook anglers

09 August 2024

Excitement is building for the return of the annual Ballarat Fishing Festival on Saturday 7 September, in line with the opening of trout fishing season in Victoria’s rivers and streams, backed by the Victorian Government.

Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison today announced the free festival which is set to draw anglers from across the Central Highlands including those new to the popular pastime hoping to catch their first fish.

The festival is one of many introductory fishing events funded by the Government’s $96 million Go Fishing and Boating Plan.

Hosted by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) between 9am and 3pm at Lake Wendouree, north of Windmill Drive, the family-friendly event will include food stalls with Victorian seafood, opportunities to learn from experienced fishers, and fun educational activities for kids.

Registration is now open for free VicFishKids clinics supported by Fishcare, which will provide juniors with an inspiring start to their fishing journey. Youngsters who participate in clinics will receive a free fishing rod to take home, tackle box, and onsite guidance from experts on casting, rigs, baits and what to do if they catch a fish.

Staff from the VFA’s Snobs Creek hatchery will also be attending, offering a chance for little anglers of tomorrow to help release hundreds of live rainbow trout into Lake Wendouree.

Teenagers and adults can try their hand at something new with free flyfishing lessons from the Ballarat Fly Fishers Club, whose volunteers will also showcase the impressive art of fly tying. There will also be a display of local freshwater fishing boats, prize draws, raffles and a local angling club sizzling snags on the barbecue.

Seafood lovers can brush up on their fish dishes thanks to cooking demonstrations from Lillie Giang, whilst people with an interest in how trout are bred can take a tour of the Ballarat Fish Hatchery adjacent to the lake.

Local Fisheries Officers will be there to answer all your questions along with leaders from the Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating (WIRFAB) network, keen to encourage other women to catch a new hobby.

For details about the day, including registration for clinics, visit vfa.vic.gov.au/ballaratfishfest

Quotes attributable to Juliana Addison, Member for Wendouree

“This year’s festival will again highlight the many family-friendly fishing opportunities across the Central Highlands.”

“Fishing is a great hobby for all ages. Get down to Lake Wendouree and join in the free fishing fun.”