VRFish in Geelong, Victoria | Sport & recreation

VRFish

Locality: Geelong, Victoria

Phone: +61 3 5221 1104

Address: 51 Yarra Street 3220 Geelong, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.vrfish.com.au

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25.01.2022 At 2 years old, Zavier Relf has reeled in his first fish while on holidays in Rye with his family! ? ?

25.01.2022 How's your holiday fishing been going? Josh Read reeled in this cracking cod while out fishing yesterday. It measured in at a nice 91cm. @josh.read_ Thanks for sharing your catch with us, Josh! ... We just LOVE to see where the fish are biting, so tag us in! Use #VRFish to share your fishing photos with us on Instagram!

25.01.2022 The Abalone Council Victoria and Deakin University are currently working together on a research project studying the growth rates of abalone in Victoria. It's vital that the tagged fish stay in the water over the next 12 months for the study to collect valuable data. Rec divers are being asked to do their part and help the researchers by leaving tagged abalone in the water undisturbed so we can help to collect robust data for the project and learn more about Victorian abalone.

24.01.2022 Boaters know how important it is to check their lifejackets regularly and prior to hitting the water. Today's "wear your lifejacket to work day" is a great reminder to get your lifejackets out and check them ahead of snapper season! Maritime Safety Victoria #lifejacket2work ... For more information https://www.wearalifejacket.vic.gov.au See more

24.01.2022 ! VRFish has written to the Premier Dan Andrews to call for the safe return of fishing in Metro Melbourne as the COVID-roadmap is now running ahead of schedule and an announcement regarding easing of restrictions expected over the weekend. Our key request is to consider recreational fishing as exercise and a permitted activity to leave home under the current restriction levels.... VRFish believes that a staged and safe approach to returning recreational fishing and boating holds a very low risk of transmission while delivering a large range of benefits to the Victorian community. A return to fishing in Metro Melbourne even in a limited format would be a huge boost for people’s mental health and an opportunity for families to exercise and recreate outdoors in a COVID-safe manner. We have pointed out that most metropolitan recreational fishers live within 5 kms of fishable water. There are 27 stocked family fishing lakes within Metropolitan Melbourne, a number of rivers and of course, the coastline of Port Phillip and Westernport Bays. Recreational fishers in Melbourne and Regional Victoria have demonstrated we are a responsible sector and willing to play our part over the last 5 months of restrictions and lockdowns. We believe taking a sensible and staged approach would be a win-win for everyone. VRFish continues to encourage recreational fishers to follow Government advice and rules on the way to achieving a COVID-normal. Melissa Horne MP

24.01.2022 Nearly $3 million dollars of Federal Government funding will flow to Victoria for 9 exciting coastal and marine fish habitat restoration projects. It’s all thanks to the strong partnerships us rec fishers now have with our waterway managers with a shared vision to make fishing better through better habitat. These projects will deliver more snags and fish hotels, restore vital living shellfish reef, mangroves and seagrass habitats and plant more vegetation near our waterways.... VRFish will be supporting the implementation of the projects through the CMAs and promoting the ways you can get involved in the following projects. Barwon Estuary Fish Habitat Restoration Project Corio Bay Fish Habitat Project Port Phillip Community Shellfish Reef Project Reel Big Fish Western Port Snowy River Estuary Fish Habitat Restoration Program Curdies Estuary Fish Habitat Restoration Project Enhancing estuaries in the Portland Basin Habitat for the rivers of Warrnambool Corner Inlet Posidonia Partnerships: fishers protecting water quality and restoring seagrass OzFish Unlimited The Nature Conservancy Australia Native Fish Australia Corangamite Catchment Management Authority Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Glenelg Hopkins CMA Melissa Horne MP Sussan Ley MP Senator Jonathon Duniam David Littleproud MP

24.01.2022 Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation's new fishing show is back tonight at 7pm. Live streamed via Facebook, the show will feature an impressive line-up of guests. Tonight is no exception with Owen Li joining host Adam Martin. ... Owen is a social scientist and Communications Coordinator at the University of Woolongong. Over the past couple of years, Owen has been instrumental in improving the communication of fisheries science to key industry stakeholders and recfishers during his role as the Recfishing Research Executive Officer with FRDC. New episodes of will be broadcast every Wednesday from 7pm (AEDT). is aimed at fishers who have a strong interest in issues such as citizen science, fish habitat, water quality, stewardship, fisheries and water management.

23.01.2022 Our member club, Central Vic Lure Casters Incorporated., are running their Major 2020 Raffle! There's only a couple of weeks left to purchase a ticket. So get in quick! First prize includes a TABS Bull Shark 4m Boat, Trailer and Motor Package. To purchase a ticket, get in contact with the Central Vic Lure Casters Incorporated. via their Facebook page.

23.01.2022 GWMWater have issued a warning for Lake Toolondo following the detection of elevated blue-green algae levels. Water users are advised to avoid direct contact with the water in Lake Toolondo. It's impossible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels within the lake, so visiting GWMWater's website is the best way to keep up-to-date https://www.gwmwater.org.au/bga

22.01.2022 ' The Victorian Government are seeking expressions of interest from recreational boaters to be a part of the Ministerial Boating Roundtable. The Roundtable will be established for the planning and development of the Victorian Recreational Boating Strategy. This will include addressing issues faced by recreational boaters and outlining priority areas for future boating investment through the Better Boating Fund.... If you're a passionate recreational boater and keen to provide input into what will make boating better in Victoria, we encourage you to apply. Applications close Wednesday 25 November 2020 at 11:59pm. For more information and to apply, visit: https://getinvolved.transport.vic.gov.au/rec-boating-strate

22.01.2022 @bh_fishing_ Austin had fun reeling in this Barwon River red on the 6lb Going fishing over the summer holidays? Of course you are! We just LOVE to see where the fish are biting, so tag us in! Use #VRFish on Instagram to share your fishing photos with us, you might even be featured on our page!

22.01.2022 VRFish is elated its 'Public Access to Public Land' campaign and advocacy has delivered the opportunity for Victorian families to camp alongside our amazing waterways while wetting a line. The changes to allow camping on Crown Land water frontage will come into effect from September 2021. https://www.vrfish.com.au//campaign-success-to-allow-camp/

22.01.2022 After a difficult year, we know many Victorians will take the chance to spend their summer break with friends and family in the great outdoors. There is no better feeling than immersing yourself in nature, rod in hand and making golden memories with your loved ones. With overseas travel restricted, Australians are being encouraged to take the chance to explore their own backyard so to speak. We’ve complied a list of some of the best camping spots across Victoria and made sure to include both inland and coastal areas so there is something for everyone!

22.01.2022 A massive 500 'stonker' rainbow trout will be stocked across 18 family fishing lakes in Metro Melbourne by the Victorian Fisheries Authority over the next week! Family fishing lakes provide a great opportunity for recfishers to cast a line. The lakes allow families to take up a new family-friendly hobby. With platforms and walking tracks, the lakes provide good access for families. They are stocked with 'ready-to-catch' rainbow trout before school holidays which are relati...vely easy to target. @jcs.fishing.adventures has already landed one- weighing in at 10.5lb! Read more https://www.vrfish.com.au//stonker-trout-stocked-across-m/

21.01.2022 Check out the latest edition of our Fishing Lines E-Newsletter for the latest in Victorian recreational fishing news.

19.01.2022 Victorians are now able to go fishing and boating throughout the state as travel restrictions have lifted. The 25km limit for Melbourne no longer applies... If you live in Melbourne, you can go fishing in Regional Victoria If you live in Regional Victoria, you can go fishing in Melbourne Boat ramps and jetties are open You must continue to adhere to physical distancing and other restrictions @fishing_victoria If you are wetting a line this week and sharing your catch on Instagram, tag us in using #VRFish! We'd love to see your first catch back on the water. For up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 restrictions, visit: DHHS: http://ow.ly/HogN50CeSAp Better Boating Victoria: https://betterboating.vic.gov.au//boating-fishing-coronav/

19.01.2022 VRFish has welcomed Ben Scullin on board as our new Advocacy and Member Co-ordinator. Ben will be spearheading VRFish’s advocacy efforts and activating our supporters to effect change needed to make fishing better for all Victorians. He will be our ‘go-to’ person for all advocacy issues and a critical link between VRFish and our growing membership.

18.01.2022 | The Victorian Fisheries Authority are hosting the sixth Talk Wild Trout conference which will be centred around . Over 3 days, there will be online presentations from trout enthusiasts, photographers, fishery managers and scientists. ... Presentations include: - Sascha Clark Danylchuk from the USA's Keep Fish Wet - Dr Paul Gaskell from the UK’s The Wild Trout Trust ’s ‘Trout in the Town’ program - Victorian Fisheries Authority staff including fisheries officers and fisheries managers - Fishing photographer, David Anderson - The Australian Trout Foundation Inc's Paul Stolz Tuesday 24th to Thursday 26th November 7pm-9pm REGISTER: www.vfa.vic.gov.au/talktrout2020 @oldirtydavo_fishing

18.01.2022 Heading out in search of snapper this weekend? You can help increase the survival of released snapper by using these best practice tips! For more information visit: https://www.vrfish.com.au/educa/campaigns/snapper-survival/... #vrfish #makefishingbetter #snappersurvival #bestpractice #responsiblefishing #snapperstewards

16.01.2022 Over the last four years, recfishers have been getting their hands dirty planting trees and caring for the the strip of land adjacent to our rivers, streams and lakes as part of the Angler Riparian Partnerships Program (ARPP). The program has enabled recfishers to partner with catchment managers and their local communities to deliver works to improve riparian land along our waterways. Its been delivered by catchment management authorities (CMAs), through $1-million in funding... earmarked from the Victorian Government’s Water for Victoria Plan. Corangamite Catchment Management Authority East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Glenelg Hopkins CMA Wimmera CMA Mallee Catchment Management Authority North Central CMA Goulburn Broken CMA North East CMA Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Victorian Fisheries Authority

16.01.2022 As recreational fishers we observe first-hand the huge amount of beverage container litter that end up in our waterways and public areas damaging ecosystems and spoiling our fishing experience. The Victorian Government is introducing a container deposit scheme (CDS) to increase beverage container recycling and reduce litter in Victoria.... We believe this scheme could be a major driver in reducing litter, increasing recycling, and potentially contribute new funds to aid in waterway restoration.

15.01.2022 Water Safety Week is a timely reminder for us to be safe while enjoying the water and to prioritise water safety when making the most of Victoria's great fishing opportunities. Statistics from Life Saving Victoria show that men are significantly overrepresented in fatal drownings and men over 45 years of age are at the highest risk of drowning. ... Before you hit the water, make sure you're prepared: Plan where you're going and tell someone your plans - including where you're going and when you'll be returning Check the weather and any emergency information Observe the conditions and be aware of any changes to conditions Always wear a lifejacket when out on the water Know your own capabilities Stay safe by fishing with a friend For more information to help you stay safe on the water, visit: https://lsv.com.au/summersafety/ #watersafetyweek2020

15.01.2022 Exciting news for our native fishers as earthworks for the new native fish hatchery are expected to start later this year. The new hatchery site at Arcadia, near Shepparton, will focus on breeding native fish species such as Murray cod, golden perch and silver perch. The site works will include construction of 32 ponds and several buildings. These works are expected to be completed by October 2021. ... The new hatchery will increase Victoria's capacity to grow more of our own fish to be stocked across the state giving us more opportunities to wet a line. It was a project VRFish successfully advocated for, and received bi-partisan support. It will also allow Snob's Creek hatchery to focus on cold-water species such as trout and chinook salmon and increasing production of Macquarie perch and trout cod. The new hatchery will help the Government meet their commitment to stock 10-million fish annually by 2022. Victorian Fisheries Authority Melissa Horne MP

14.01.2022 | To follow on from VRFish's strategic planning process we are developing our next set of key priorities that we will advocate for on behalf of 838,000 Victorian recreational fishers. To do this, we are inviting all Victorian recreational fishers to have their say through our priorities survey. We are interested to hear what's most important to you and your fishing and encourage you to raise any new ideas that can make fishing even be...tter in Victoria! COMPLETE THE SURVEY: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CJBGW9F

14.01.2022 Maritime Safety Victoria are hosting inflatable lifejacket clinics across the State. Learn how to self-inspect your inflatable lifejacket by enrolling in one of the free clinics. Clinics will be held at a range of locations including: Rhyll, Warrnambool, Altona, Leopold, Patterson River, Shepparton, Bendigo, Hastings. All participants receive a $30 voucher to a local marine retailer towards new safety gear. ... Find out more information and register at: https://wearalifejacket.transportsafety.vic.gov.au/floatsafe

14.01.2022 Cracking catch, Caitlin! @cbx2_fish Caitlin said "After countless long, hard, cold donut trips over winter, I’ve finally managed to land a decent Eildon cod 112cm off the top on the @balistalures Tremor with the paddler bib. I have been waiting a long time for this fish and it feels good "

14.01.2022 Bradon Wood reeled in this very interesting catch of a trout cod while fishing in the Murray River at Pental Island for golden perch. In Victoria, trout cod are classified as a threatened species. In recent times, it has been uncommon to see trout cod so far downstream on the Murray River so this catch is a good sign! Bradon caught the trout cod while using worms as bait.

14.01.2022 For those who are planning to reel in a snapper during the annual snapper run, it’s a great time to brush up on your handling and release techniques and responsibilities as a recfisher through our Snapper Stewards program.

14.01.2022 Good to see some field work at Reedy Lake No.3 to learn more about the population of the presumed extinct (in Vic) Southern purple spotted gudgeon.

14.01.2022 With many Victorians on holidays and the weather heating up, we expect to see Victorian recfishers taking the opportunity to get out onto the water for a fish with family and friends. As the water temperature rises, yellowtail kingfish become a popular target for fishers in the Bay. The ‘canyons’ in the Rip provide an ideal structure for kingfish and combined with the strong comeback of kingfish in Victorian waters, there has been an increase in the number of boats accessing the fishery. It's important for fishers to be aware that it is also a pathway for large commercial ships travelling to and from the ports in Melbourne and Geelong.

13.01.2022 The Victorian Fisheries Authority's Golden Tag competition is back and better than ever providing fishers opportunities to reel in a winner across the state! The competition aims to boost tourism to regional Victoria to support regional towns and businesses. After months of lockdown, we know Victorian’s are eager to wet a line. Now is the perfect time to plan a fishing trip and support Victoria’s recovery.... There are more than 1,000 fish released as part of the competition! Approximately, 950 fish have already been released at $2,000 each. More than 20 new fish worth $10,000 each and an extra 50 fish worth $2,000 will be released. The competition has been expanded and includes: Gippsland (Marlo, Tamboon, Lakes Tyers, Gippsland Lakes and Mallacoota) North East and Alpine regions Portland Rocklands Reservoir Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri Lindsay River and Kings Billabong Lake Eildon For more information on the Golden Tag Competition, visit the Victorian Fisheries Authority website: www.vfa.vic.gov.au/goldentag Melissa Horne MP

12.01.2022 Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation's new fishing show kicks off tonight at 7pm. is aimed at fishers who have a strong interest in issues such as citizen science, fish habitat, water quality, stewardship, fisheries and water management.... Live streamed via Facebook, the show will feature an impressive line-up of guests starting tonight with Frank Prokop. All future episodes of will be broadcast every Wednesday from 7pm (AEDT). The show is hosted by ARFF's Adam Martin.

12.01.2022 A dad and daughter making precious memories that will last a lifetime through fishing for our iconic Murray cod! @yaknboats "My little fishing buddy is so keen she's even asked Santa for a kayak!" That's what we love to hear - the next generation of fishers getting hooked on fishing and spending time in the great outdoors.

12.01.2022 VRFish joined Greenwells Fly Fishing Club and the Victorian Fisheries Authority to assist in stocking 35,000 golden perch into Lake Hume. A cracking mixed fishery, Lake Hume is regularly stocked with Murray Cod, golden perch, brown and rainbow trout.

11.01.2022 We just love to see what's been biting while recfishers are out wetting a line and enjoying the summer break! This 95cm Murray Cod was reeled in from Wimmera Lake on a yabby with an 8-pound line.

11.01.2022 MARINE PEST ALERT Keep an eye out and report to authorities any possible sightings of Asian shore crabs.

11.01.2022 Murray Cod season opens on Tuesday 1 December 2020 after a three-month closed season. Many freshwater fishos have been expressing their excitement via social media to catch their first cod of the season. When targeting our beloved cod it is incredibly important to ensure you are taking care of your catch to ensure the sustainability of this magnificent and unique fishery for future generations. We have partnered with the Victorian Fisheries Authority and Native Fish Australi...a to develop a Care for Cod campaign. When practicing catch and release, adopting better handling practices can help cod to survive post-release. #vrfish #makefishingbetter #careforcod Cameron @cbx2_fish

11.01.2022 Waranga Basin is a Redfin Mecca which attracts anglers from far and wide. It has a well-established, self-sustaining population of Redfin which is popular with recfishers and during summer, the water often sees 100+ boats on the water chasing this highly prized table species. The Goulburn Valley region has a diverse range of freshwater fishing opportunities in the region which are celebrated by fishers of all ages. Keen fishers can catch a cod or yella in the lower reaches of the Goulburn River in the morning, then drive a short distance to the Waranga Basin in the afternoon to catch a delicious feed of reddies for dinner.

11.01.2022 Bryce had a ripper session yesterday on the Wimmera River, catching a couple of great yellas and he even reeled in a new PB at 47cm! @fishing.with.nata

10.01.2022 What a catch! Dani caught her first surface cod while kayak fishing over the weekend. She said it's the best feeling ever @danilagarde_

10.01.2022 Fishing at night is currently being restricted along 30,000 kilometres of public land next to our rivers and streams in Victoria. That’s what the Parks and Crown Land Amendment Bill sets out to reverse by allowing camping on Crown Land Water Frontages with grazing licenses. ... .... What a fantastic way to fish and experience our amazing rivers! #vrfish #makefishingbetter #publicland #publicaccess #familyfishing

10.01.2022 ? There is a lot of bulldust floating around about camping on water frontage licenced crown land. The amendment to remove the express prohibition on camping in section 401A of the Land Act 1958 is just that. There is a big difference between what an Act of Parliament states is not prohibited and how and when any activity can actually occur.... The wording of section 401A makes it clear that regulations would need to be made to even allow camping to happen. Current public access to water frontage licence crown land is also regulated. Read the wording of s401A here http://ow.ly/AADI50BX6G4 It’s clear that camping cannot suddenly explode everywhere if the Bill is passed. Making any camping regulations would involve a long and tedious process that includes in how they want the regulations to operate (including putting our heads together on how to better deal with idiots). The amendment doesn’t mean the public suddenly have access to private property. ’ . Below is a quick check list of what is and what is not fact

10.01.2022 | Whether you're fishing, boating, swimming or relaxing on the bank while enjoying our iconic inland waterways this summer, it's important to stay safe and be aware of potential risks. With more people on the water over the summer, drowning is known to peak at this time of year. In fact, Australians are 1.73 times more likely to drown on a public holiday compared with any other day.... Stay safe on and next to the water this summer by following these safety tips. For more information, visit: https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/progra/respect-the-river #RespectTheRiver

10.01.2022 Going rock fishing this summer? Know the risks and be sure to always check the weather and water conditions before heading out. Always wear a life jacket Never fish alone Inform others of your plans... Wear light clothing and appropriate footwear Carry safety gear including a rope and a float Plan an escape route in case you are washed in Stay alert Ask for advice from locals who know the area Stay safe while Rock Fishing this summer, visit: https://lsv.com.au/research/rock-fishing/ #PISBTW #watersafety #rockfishingsafety Life Saving Victoria Victorian Fisheries Authority

09.01.2022 @flick_fishin Joshua had a ripper day yesterday fly fishing and catching stonker trout at his local family fishing lake. Family fishing lakes provide a great opportunity for recfishers to cast a line close to home. They also boast great access and are regularly stocked with ready-to-catch fish! 500 'stonker' trout, just like this one, are being stocked into 18 family fishing lakes across Metro Melbourne by next week. To see which lakes will be stocked with stonkers and when, visit the Victorian Fisheries Authority's website here: https://vfa.vic.gov.au//stocking-stonkers-in-metropolitan-

09.01.2022 We're thrilled with the completion of two new reef projects near Geelong. The reefs will deliver enriched fish habitat which will provide our fishers with more fishing opportunities for popular saltwater species such as snapper, King George whiting, flathead and calamari. Victorian Fisheries Authority Melissa Horne MP The Nature Conservancy Australia

09.01.2022 Today we joined our member club Camperdown Angling Club and the Victorian Fisheries Authority to help stock 60,000 Chinook salmon fry into Lake Bullen Merri. Earlier this year, Lake Bullen Merri also received a stocking of brown trout and rainbow trout. We've heard reports that the lake is fishing quite well at the moment with some good sized chinook salmon hooked by local anglers.

09.01.2022 MURRAY RIVER RE-OPENS Good news for our border communities who have been locked out from the Murray River. They can now use the river with a border permit. Check out the details below:

08.01.2022 Our snapper fishery is world-class and there are many things we can do as recfishers to keep it that way including helping released snapper survive. Tips to assist in the survival of released snapper: ~ Fish shallow water to avoid barotrauma ~ Leave snapper in the water for release... ~ Minimise handling and netting ~ Use circle hooks or lures ~ Release snapper quickly https://www.vrfish.com.au/2020/11/02/be-a-snapper-steward/ @purple5ive_captures caught this brilliant snapper in Port Phillip Bay over the weekend. #vrfish #makefishingbetter #snappersurvival #snappersteward

08.01.2022 New boat ramps are open at Upper Coliban and Barkers Creek reservoirs allowing better on-water access for recfishers in central Victoria. Improved on-water access to these reservoirs is a huge win for recfishers as the new boat ramps will make getting on the water much easier for small vessels - only canoes, kayaks and small boats with electric motors are permitted on the reservoirs. The new ramps have opened just in time for Murray Cod season. The Victorian Fisheries Autho...rity even stocked golden tagged fish in both reservoirs to celebrate - giving fishers the chance to win up to $10,000. Recfishers can catch a range of freshwater species in the reservoirs - with Murray Cod, golden perch and trout regularly stocked. It's a great time to head to central Victoria for a fishing trip, not only is there improved access to these great reservoirs, you also have the chance to reel in a winning fish while supporting regional communities! Melissa Horne MP Mary-Anne Thomas MP

08.01.2022 Steve Relf has joined the mighty metre cod club! Steve is a member of the Dunlop Bayswater Angling Club, Howqua Angling Clubs Association and the Deputy Chair of VRFish. He landed this great catch at Eildon - one of Victoria's best mixed fisheries. Since 2018, more than 2-million fish have been stocked into Eildon including Murray Cod, Golden perch, brown trout and rainbow trout. Eildon is a year-round cod fishery. ... Murray Cod open season kicks off tomorrow, Tuesday 1 December.

07.01.2022 Sig Grasser, 89, and his son Gerhard spent a few days fishing at Gunbower Creek recently for the first time since the COVID-lockdowns. Sig has been going to this location for a few years now without ever having caught a legal Murray cod. During his recent trip, Sig gleefully landed a mighty Murray cod! Not only did Sig catch this fish himself on a yabby, he also measured it as legal at 74cm in length and then chose to release it.

07.01.2022 Excitement is building at Rocklands Reservoir with signs stocked native fish are already entering the fishery after just three years of growth. A flurry of recent golden perch catches is providing the best evidence yet Rocklands is well on its way to become a native fish gem for recfishers in Victoria’s west.

07.01.2022 In Victoria, we are blessed with beautiful coastlines that make it easy to fish from rock ledges, submerged rocks and rock faces. However, whilst rock fishing can guarantee some great fishing there are serious dangers associated with it. Precautions should be taken to ensure that rock fishing is enjoyed safely. To brush up on Rock Fishing Safety visit: https://www.vrfish.com.au/2018/03/02/rock-fishing-safety/

07.01.2022 Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation's is back tonight at 7pm. This week's episode with ARFF's Adam Martin discusses why we really need to engage in recreational fishing citizen science. ... New episodes of will be broadcast live via Facebook every Wednesday from 7pm (AEDT). is aimed at fishers who have a strong interest in issues such as citizen science, fish habitat, water quality, stewardship, fisheries and water management.

07.01.2022 | Starting tonight, the Victorian Fisheries Authority are hosting the sixth Talk Wild Trout conference which will be centred around . Over 3 days, there will be online presentations from trout enthusiasts, photographers, fishery managers and scientists. ... Tuesday 24th to Thursday 26th November 7pm-9pm REGISTER: www.vfa.vic.gov.au/talktrout2020 @skinner4596

06.01.2022 Mighty Murray cod and yellowbelly are set to benefit from new woody habitat and snag structures which will improve the recreational fishery in the Little Murray River. This new habitat is funded by recreational fishing licence fees and is being installed by North Central CMA.

06.01.2022 Dan reeled in this great Port Phillip Bay gummy shark while fishing with his brother, Patrick. The gummy was taken off Carrum in 20m on a fresh pilchard. Patrick Captured Fishing We just love to see what's been biting while you're out fishing and enjoying the summer break! Tag us in your posts on Instagram using #VRFish

06.01.2022 Devon's hard work paid off! Great catch, mate! @devalicious "Love it when a plan comes together! While locked down due to Covid19, I did plenty of research on targeting & catching yellow belly. I put my knowledge to the test and the rewards payed off With warmer weather on the way, there will be plenty more snaps of me doing what I love most! The smile says it all "

05.01.2022 FISHING RECOGNISED AS OUTDOOR EXERCISE IN METRO MELBOURNE We are pleased Premier Andrews has taken our advice that fishing is a safe, family friendly activity for Melbournians under Step 2 of the Covid recovery roadmap. From 5am tomorrow you can go fishing within 5km of home each day for up to 2 hours "only where facilities are not required", i.e. such as bank, beach and kayak fishing. ... Using a powered boat will still not be permitted and we are seeking further clarification about what constitutes a 'facility'. We accept that this restricted form of fishing won't suit everyone. Equally we know of many fishers who are desperate to have any opportunity to throw a line in at their local waterway. VRFish continues to advocate for the safe return of fishing and boating as soon as possible and for Government to guarantee a snapper season. There are many fishable areas close to home than people think. For instance, there are many urban stocked waterways with trout and native fish thanks to the tireless work by the Victorian Fisheries Authority and recreational fishing organisations. You can find Metro stocked waters here - https://vfa.vic.gov.au/db/list-last-stocked-information.

05.01.2022 Young gun Oakley Brennan caught this beautiful silver perch on worms at the Donald caravan park lake. In recent years, the lake has been stocked with silver perch, golden perch and rainbow trout. This silver perch would be nearly 2 years old, so they're growing well in the lake! @donald_angling_club

05.01.2022 Amazing photos of natural spawning aggregations of the endangered Macquarie perch in NE Victoria! They deposit their eggs in in the base of pools which are then washed into the riffle areas where they become lodged in the substrate. Historically, we used to have huge numbers of ‘Maccas’ when our streams were clear and free from fish barriers. Sadly that’s not the case nowadays. That’s why it’s important that recreational fishers continue to work with the Government to help recover the now fragmented Macca populations in Victoria. Looking after our current populations, improving waterway health, increasing restocking efforts can all give them a helping hand.

05.01.2022 The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has issued a scare campaign aimed at reducing recreational fisher access to public land. A central component of the VFF’s scare campaign is to suggest recreational fishers are a biosecurity threat to Victorian farms. We call BULLDUST! Farm biosecurity is a set of measures designed to protect a property from the entry and spread of pests and diseases.... The Parliamentary Inquiry into the Impact of Animal Rights Activism on Victorian Agriculture Report clearly demonstrated the critical importance biosecurity plays in the Victorian agricultural industry. Public access to public land and CAMPING are NOT MENTIONED! What is mentioned is the State Government’s $710,000 gift to the VFF to deliver a consumerfocussed communications and engagement campaign. VRFish ponders how the VFF’s funding of a scare campaign to restrict public access to public land is in line with the recommendations of the report or the funding agreement. https://www.vrfish.com.au//farm-biosecurity-and-public-ac/

05.01.2022 Birchip Angling Club's Jarrod Tyler hooked this 5kg+ yellowbelly while casting lures in one of the Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water pipeline water recreational lakes. VRFish strongly advocated for piped water to be delivered to a great selection of recreational water bodies as part of the Wimmera Mallee pipeline project. We have also been instrumental in having these water bodies stocked with suitable fish species for all regional and visiting fishers to enjoy the sport of recreational fishing. This demonstrates the value of having a strong and independent recreational fishing peak body.

05.01.2022 We're encouraging our Fishing Club members to apply for the 2020-21 Sporting Club Grants Program through Sport and Recreation Victoria. VRFish was recently endorsed as a State Sport and Recreation Body by Sport and Recreation Victoria which unlocks this much-needed funding for our fishing clubs. There has never been a better time for Victorian fishing clubs and associations to so your Club can access new funding opportunities and greater support through Sport and... Recreation Victoria. Clubs, associations and individuals can through our website here: www.vrfish.com.au/membership-join/ 2020-21 Sporting Club Grants Program https://sport.vic.gov.au//our/sporting-club-grants-program

04.01.2022 Dave Sparrow caught this beauty while fishing at a super secret location in Melbourne - we promised we'd keep the spot a secret It's been great to see so many fishers have had a chance to wet a line since restrictions have eased for Metro Melbourne. Fishing can have such a positive effect on people's health and wellbeing. Fishing is now classed as outdoor exercise in Melbourne - so you can go fishing within 5km of your home, where facilities are not required, for up to 2... hours. VRFish continues to advocate for the safe return of fishing and boating as soon as possible and for Government to guarantee us a snapper season.

04.01.2022 For too long recreational fishers have been prevented from enjoying fishing from public land beside rivers. We're calling on recreational fishers to throw their support behind the Parks and Crown Land Legislation Amendment Bill 2019 that will allow camping on public land beside rivers... The Bill is currently being considered by the Victorian parliament. By supporting this Bill, you are supporting the opportunity to create golden moments of family time, fishing and camping on public land next to our magnificent waterways. Show your support for public access to public land by visiting the following site and emailing the Victorian Crossbench MP’s: https://vrfish.good.do/publicaccesstopublicland/ #vrfish #makefishingbetter #fishingvictoria #publicaccess #publicland

04.01.2022 VRFish is thrilled with the upcoming construction of new recreational fishing reefs near Geelong. The reefs will provide enhanced fish habitat which will in turn provide us fishers with more fishing opportunities for some of our favourite species such as snapper, King George whiting, flathead and calamari. We have been advocating for the expansion of coastal purpose-built artificial reefs and recommended the area as ripe for creating recreational fishing reefs.... VRFish facilitated a meeting with local fishers to help identify the most promising areas for recreational reefs in Corio Bay and the Geelong Arm. Three sites were ultimately selected at St. Helens, Kirks Point and Outer Harbour, with each site to receive 5 to 6 patch reefs. We are excited the new reefs will benefit land-based fishers at St. Helens as well as boat-based fishers at the two other sites within easy access of existing boat ramps. The reefs are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

03.01.2022 ! The day freshwater fishos have been counting down to is here: Murray Cod season opened today, Tuesday 1 December. Before you head out in search of a prized metre-plus cod, check out the Care for Cod best practice campaign. Care for Cod encourages recfishers to adopt four better handling practices that can help cod to survive post-release.... | , - | 30 . , | ’ | , https://www.vrfish.com.au//cod-open-season-kicks-off-on-t/ #vrfish #makefishingbetter #careforcod

03.01.2022 Tristan Armstrong caught this while fishing a river in the North East The monster brown measured 66cm and was estimated to weight 10lb+. It was caught on orange size 12 bead head fly on 4 weight rod. #vrfish #makefishingbetter #fishingvictoria

03.01.2022 Researchers from Deakin University have turned to spy-like aquatic surveillance to uncover the secret life of river blackfish and give them a helping hand. Once abundant, river blackfish populations have declined across south-east Australia due to a reduction in habitat condition.

03.01.2022 VRFish supports free access to public land which is why we strongly support the Parks and Crown Land Legislation Amendment Bill 2019 that will allow camping on public land beside rivers. - .... You don't need a permit to go to the beach, so you shouldn't need one to go to the river! Let the Opposition Leader, Michael O'Brien, know this is unacceptable by contacting: [email protected] The Bill is currently being considered by the Victorian parliament so it's not too late to show your support for public access to public land by visiting the following site and emailing the Victorian Crossbench MP’s: https://vrfish.good.do/publicaccesstopublicland/ #vrfish #makefishingbetter #fishingvictoria #publicaccess #publicland

03.01.2022 ! VRFish has called on Premier Dan Andrews to open safe recreational fishing and boating for all Melburnians and guarantee access to our iconic snapper season in Port Phillip Bay and Westernport. VRFish have written to the Premier and highlighted that the health, wellbeing and social connection benefits for Melbourne’s recreational fishers should now be a priority when considering the extremely low risk of virus transmission ...during safe recreational fishing and boating activity. VRFish calls on recreational fishers to follow Government advice and rules on the way to achieving a COVID-normal. Melissa Horne MP Letter to the Premier http://ow.ly/iSZv50BTZiZ Ian Whiteside landed this beautiful Red, first bait down for the 2020 Snapper Season.

03.01.2022 If you're keen to learn more about the new fishways being built at Cohuna and Koondrook Weirs, the benefits to fish movement and the community, check this out! On Wednesday 24 February, North Central CMA are hosting two community chat webinars at 1pm and 7pm.

02.01.2022 It's official....Boat Ramps are Open across Melbourne!

02.01.2022 ! Only 3 more sleeps There's still plenty of time to brush up on the Care for Cod best practice campaign before Murray Cod open season kicks off. Care for Cod encourages recfishers to adopt four better handling practices that can help cod to survive post-release.... | , - | 30 . , | ’ | , https://www.vrfish.com.au//cod-open-season-kicks-off-on-t/ Murray Cod season opens on Tuesday 1 December. #vrfish #makefishingbetter #careforcod Cod & Yella

02.01.2022 | SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER 2020 National Gone Fishing Day is our day as recreational fishers to celebrate our favourite pastime - fishing! This year, our national peak body for recfishers (ARFF) have found a new innovative way to celebrate recfishing across the nation. ARFF have carefully designed Gone Fishing Day 2020 so that anyone can safely get involved on the day via an innovative Gone Fishing Day App and be in the running for prizes which will be drawn ever...y 5 minutes from 6am -6pm! This year’s virtual format has been specifically designed so that everyone can get involved by uploading your favourite photos, video and stories, past and present, including from your fishing photo albums. Apple App store available now! http://ow.ly/9fmO50BRJyb Google Play - Android users will need to download via the developers website: https://tmftournaments.com/gone-fishing-day-android-downlo/ Gone Fishing Day Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation OzFish Unlimited #gonefishingday #gfd2020 #vrfish #makefishingbetter

01.01.2022 We're encouraging our Fishing Club members to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program through Sport and Recreation Victoria. Last year, VRFish was endorsed as a State Sport and Recreation Body by Sport and Recreation Victoria which unlocks this much-needed funding for our fishing clubs. There are several funding opportunities available to sporting clubs at the moment. ... There has never been a better time for Victorian fishing clubs and associations to so your Club can access new funding opportunities and greater support through Sport and Recreation Victoria. Clubs, associations and individuals can through our website here: www.vrfish.com.au/membership-join/

01.01.2022 Many recfishers say reddies are their favourite freshwater fish for the table and the Waringa Basin is a fantastic spot to reel in a delicious feed! With a well-established Redfin population, Waranga Basin is hailed as a Redfin Mecca by reddie fishers from right across the state.

01.01.2022 The Asian shore crab has been spotted along the beaches of Port Phillip Bay - at Mount Martha, Rickett's Point and Point Cook Marine Sanctuary. Please report any sightings via the Snap Send Solve app. Find out more: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au//report-a-marine-pest-sight... Agriculture Victoria

01.01.2022 ' Fish Aggregation Devices, FAD's, have been deployed off Airley's Inlet and Lorne ready to attract kingfish and other pelagic game fishing species as the water warms up. There are also five FAD's anchored to the artificial reefs in Torquay which were deployed earlier this month. ... The FAD's at Airley's Inlet and Lorne were introduced last year as an expansion of the FAD's trial after seeing kingfish captured. The FAD's are removed prior to winter to avoid damage or loss from the stronger winter swells and to avoid entailing whales during their migration.

01.01.2022 On Friday, local anglers assisted VRFish and the Victorian Fisheries Authority with releasing Murray Cod fingerlings into Lake Hume and the Kiewa River! There were 70,000 Murray Cod fingerlings released into Lake Hume and 10,000 Murray Cod fingerlings into the Kiewa River.