Our recent kids fishing clinics in Kalbarri and the Shark Bay Fiesta brought families, communities and young fishers together to get among some of the ripper fishing WA has to offer.
These clinics, proudly supported by Healthway and Shimano Australia, showed youngsters not just how to catch fish, but how to live a healthier outdoors lifestyle, stay SunSmart and connect with nature and their community.
Kids fishing comp a Fiesta highlight once again
As a part of the Fiesta put on by the Shark Bay Community Resource Centre, Recfishwest joined Shark Bay locals to deliver a fishing clinic and help out with the annual kids comp on the famous Denham jetty.
The session saw more than 20 local kids and families join in on the fishing fun. The comp formed part of a packed week of festivities celebrating the important role fishing plays in the Shark Bay lifestyle and community.
Participants experienced an action-packed session, with the turquoise waters producing bluebone and grunter among other species. For a few of the participants, it was their first time catching a fish with plenty of smiles and excitement seen along the jetty.
“Seeing kids outdoors and families fishing together in Shark Bay is what it’s all about. Fishing is such an important part of the town, bringing people together and supporting the local community and lifestyle,” said Recfishwest Senior Operations Officer Sam Russell.
Now, in its 31st year, the Shark Bay Fiesta is a cherished community event that is a yearly highlight for many locals, emphasising the importance of fishing and local activities to regional communities.
Kalbarri clinic continues the fishing fun
In partnership with the Kalbarri Offshore and Angling Club, the Recfishwest team also delivered a clinic for the Kalbarri local community near the mouth of the mighty Murchison River. Fifteen participants, families, and mates came to the clinic to wet a line and learn the basics of safe and sustainable fishing. There were steady bites and plenty of action on the sand, with consistent catches of whiting keeping the excitement high.
“It’s awesome seeing local families and mates getting involved, learning the basics and enjoying what makes fishing in places like Kalbarri so special, big shout out to the Kalbarri Offshore and Angling Club for helping out,” said Sam.
Recfishwest staff also checked in with the Kalbarri Offshore and Angling Club and the local tackle store to discuss current issues and have a chat about all things fishing.
“It’s always great getting the chance to chat with local people on the ground, the feedback from clubs and the community is incredibly valuable and plays a big role in helping shape our decisions and positions at Recfishwest,” commented Sam.
More than just fishing
“These clinics provide more than just fishing opportunities, they support environmental stewardship, mental wellbeing, social connection, and community engagement in regional WA.”
A massive thankyou to Shark Bay Community Resource Centre, Kalbarri Offshore and Angling Club, volunteers, local shires, Healthway and Shimano Australia for supporting these clinics – it’s these valued partners who make these events possible.
