Trout fishing takes centre stage at free event
02 May 2022
All things trout fishing will be showcased this month as the picturesque Eildon plays host to Troutfest 2022 on Saturday, 14 May.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) CEO, Travis Dowling, said the Troutfest event is being run in partnership with the Australian Trout Foundation (ATF) and would highlight the vast recreational fishing opportunities on offer around Eildon and throughout the state.
“This event will be a trout fishers paradise, with tours of our Snobs Creek hatchery, guided fishing clinics, casting demos and much, much more,” Mr Dowling said.
“There will be something for fishers of all ages with activities for the kids and a Fishing Hub where you can learn the latest from organisations like the VFA and ATF, Fishcare, VRFish, Maritime Safety Victoria, our Women in Recreational Fishing Network and Native Fish Australia.
“Trout are a key component of our record 10 million stocking effort, with close to two million browns, rainbows and tiger trout stocked across the state in the past 12 months. These stockings are thanks to fishing licence fees and the Victorian Government’s $35 million Go Fishing Victoria plan.
“A lot of those fish, as well as native species and Chinook salmon, are grown at the nearby Snobs Creek hatchery under the watchful eye of our expert staff. Tours of the facility will offer a unique opportunity to learn more about how your fish are produced.”
The guided tours of Snobs Creek will be conducted hourly from 10.30am with VFA staff leading the way and giving fishers a rare, behind the scenes look into fish production.
Fishcare will lead the clinics at Eildon Pondage and there will be casting demos and competitions held throughout the day as well as prize giveaways for fishers of all ages.
“Whether you’ve been tying your own flies for years or fishing for trout is something you’ve always wanted to try, there is something for everyone at Troutfest 2022,” Mr Dowling said.
Troutfest will run from 10am-4pm on Saturday 14 May, and the Fishing Hub will be based at the Eildon Community Centre on the shores of Eildon Pondage.
Bookings for hatchery tours and guided fishing clinics are essential. You can reserve your spot and find out more about what’s on offer by visiting www.vfa.vic.gov.au/troutfest