Here are 65,300 more reasons for freshwater anglers in Western Australia’s South‑West to be excited this year — that’s the total number of trout to be stocked ahead of the spring fishing season!
Following recommendations made by Recfishwest’s Freshwater Fisheries Reference Group, the breakdown of this year’s rainbow and brown trout stocking is:
– 39,600 smaller trout fingerlings
– 23,200 mid-sized yearlings
– 2,500 larger ex‑broodstock fish
Scroll down for all the locations and numbers.
Also check out the Australian Trout Foundation’s great South-West trout fishing guide series for some great local fishing tips:
Check out some great general freshwater fishing tips here from Recfishwest freshwater fishing expert Sam Russell.
Click here to buy a South-West freshwater fishing licence from DPIRD.
These hatchery‑reared trout will soon be thriving in the region’s dams, rivers, and streams, providing prime opportunities for nearly 10,000 freshwater licence holders to enjoy some spectacular angling against scenic backdrops.
And remember kids under 16 fish are not required to have a freshwater fishing licence to fish – a further incentive if needed for a safe, accesibe, great day out fishing for the family.
In recent years, the Reference Group has advocated for releasing more robust yearlings and ex‑broodstock, and fewer fragile fingerlings. The goal is to fortify our freshwater fisheries with resilient fish that can better withstand natural challenges and deliver more rewarding catches for anglers.
Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland said, “Freshwater fishing in WA’s South-West is about standing in a river, surrounded by tall karri trees, or casting into a picturesque dam for some hard-fighting rainbow or brown trout. It’s a chance for families and friends to come together, share time outdoors and create some great fishing memories.
“At the same time, this fishery generates around $20 million a year for regional communities through tourism, tackle, accommodation and hospitality. It’s a perfect example of how great fishing experiences deliver both immense social value and real economic benefits for WA.”
Don’t forget, our annual family-friendly trout stocking events are coming up! Waroona Troutfest will kick off on Saturday 4 October and the Southern Forests Trout Festival will return to Big Brook Dam in Pemberton on Sunday 12 October, allowing families to hand-release hundreds of stunning rainbow and brown trout!
BROODSTOCK
YEARLINGS
FINGERLINGS
