Get Hooked on Lakes Entrance fish and seafood

27 February 2023

If you love fresh Victorian seafood and the idea of a road trip on a long weekend then get along to the free Hooked on Lakes Entrance event on Sunday, 12 March.

Discover the wonders of East Gippsland, eat locally caught fish, learn more about where it comes from, and let the kids loose in a free fishing clinic run by experts.

Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) CEO Travis Dowling said Lakes Entrance is a fishing mecca and home to one of Australia's largest commercial fishing fleets, making it the perfect destination to celebrate fresh, locally sourced seafood.

“Lakes Entrance also offers fantastic recreational fishing for beginners and experienced die-hards, from the shore or boats, big and small,” Mr Dowling said.

“Recreational access to the Lakes is improving thanks to Better Boating Victoria’s boat ramp upgrades at North Arm and Seacombe, repaired jetties on the Mitchell River, plans for an all-abilities pontoon at Apex Park, and a boating facilities redevelopment at Shaving Point, Metung.

“The Hooked on Lakes event will showcase the vast array of fresh fish caught by commercial fishers off the coast, other delicious local produce and great fishing across East Gippsland.”

The free event will run from 10am till 4pm on the Lakes Entrance Foreshore Reserve and boast new activities to get everyone excited, including:

• Seafood cooking and filleting demonstrations by three local chefs and Cara Cummings from the Women in Recreational Fishing (WIRF) network
• Free Fishcare 'Come and Try' fishing clinics for kids and families
• Transport Safety Victoria Maritime Float Safe inflatable lifejacket clinics
• Meet the leaders of WIRF to learn more about the group and to expand your fishing horizons
• Kids amusements
• Lakes Entrance Action & Development Association’s food, market stalls and duck race
• Family-friendly areas to enjoy the marvellous waterfront views.

Mr Dowling said Hooked on Lakes is perfect for families keen to make the most of the March long weekend, explore stunning waterways together and indulge in Victoria’s world class seafood.
For more information visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/hookedonlakes