Victorian families can catch a new hobby these June school holidays thanks to a state-wide trout stocking program funded by recreational fishing licence fees and the State Government’s Target One Million plan, which aims to get more people fishing, more often.

Member for Eastern Metropolitan Shaun Leane said 65 Family Fishing Lakes, including Lilydale Lake, would share in more than 26,000 rainbow trout that will be stocked at a catchable size.

Several of the lakes are in suburban Melbourne and regional centres, providing the perfect opportunity for beginners to try fishing for the first time.

It is now easier to find a Family Fishing Lake close to home by using the Google Maps search function recently added to the Fisheries Victoria web page that lists all of the Family Fishing Lakes and their stocking numbers – www.vic.gov.au/holidaytrout

Family Fishing Lakes to be stocked for these holidays include Lilydale Lake (800 rainbow trout), Emerald Lake (500), Rowville Lakes (550), Karkarook Lake in Moorabbin (2000), Casey Fields Lake (500), Marysville Lake (450), Eildon Pondage (2000), Darlingsford Lake in Melton (500), Spavin Lake in Sunbury (400), Victoria Lake in Shepparton (500), Sambell Lake in Beechworth (300), Morwell Lake (750), Hyland Lake in Churchill (750) and St Augustines Waterhole in Geelong (500).

Most of the lakes provide convenient access for families with fishing platforms, bankside tracks, picnic tables and other facilities.

Rainbow trout are a good target species for children and newcomers to fishing because they are relatively easy to catch and take a variety of baits and lures.

Anglers are reminded that a daily bag limit of five trout applies in Family Fishing Lakes, of which only two trout can exceed 35 centimetres in length.

Low rainfall in some areas has affected water levels in several Family Fishing Lakes, some of which have not been stocked, so people should check the web page before planning a trip.

For more information about fishing rules and licensing refer to the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide, available free from most good bait and tackle shops, online at www.vic.gov.au/fisheries or by downloading the free ‘Vic Fishing’ app for smart phones.
Quotes attributable to Shaun Leane MP

“We want more families enjoying the great outdoors together and being active, which is why we are improving fishing opportunities through the Andrews Labor Government’s Target One Million plan.”

“Family Fishing Lakes are ideal locations to try fishing for the first time or take a friend who’s been keen to wet a line with their kids.”