77,600 trout stocked for another great season of freshwater fishing!

It’s time to dust off the waders, stock up on trout lures and check your South-West freshwater fishing licence is current, with 77,600 trout being released into waterways across the southern half of Western Australia. 

September traditionally marks the start of the freshwater fishing season, although trout and redfin can now be caught year-round. 

Western Australia’s trout fishery is supported by DPIRD’s comprehensive stocking program, run through its Pemberton hatchery. Recfishwest’s Freshwater Reference Group helps guide the program by recommending where trout should be released each year to provide the best possible fishing experiences. 

This year, DPIRD will stock 77,100 rainbow trout and 500 brown trout across a range of rivers, streams and dams. See the tables below for a full breakdown of where the fish are being released. 

Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland said the annual stocking program was critical to maintaining and improving freshwater fishing opportunities. 

“Every trout released represents another opportunity for someone to experience the excitement of freshwater fishing, whether that is a youngster catching their first fish at a dam or an experienced angler exploring a secluded South-West stream,” Dr Rowland said. 

“Recfishwest is proud to ensure fishers have a strong voice in deciding where these trout are stocked so the program continues to deliver rewarding, accessible fishing experiences. 

“It also gives people another reason to visit regional towns, stay a little longer and support local accommodation providers, tackle shops, cafes and other businesses.” 

Join the trout festivities this October  

Families can see these magnificent fish up close and help release them at two free community trout festivals this October: 

• Waroona Troutfest: Saturday, 3 October at Drakesbrook Weir, delivered in partnership with the Shire of Waroona. Find out more.  

• Southern Forests Trout Festival: Sunday, 11 October at Big Brook Dam, Pemberton, from 9am to 1pm, delivered in partnership with the Southern Forests Freshwater Angling Club. More details – available soon. Keep an eye out on our channels.
  

Click here for some great freshwater fishing tips and info

Along with hands-on trout stocking, both festivals will offer plenty of free activities for children and families, including fly-casting demonstrations, face painting, fishing clinics and rod-and-reel hire. 

Come along, lend a hand and discover the joy of freshwater fishing in Western Australia’s magnificent South-West.