Freshwater licence-free weekend and Recfishwest’s Troutfest

Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly today announced Western Australians can go freshwater fishing in the State’s South West licence-free next weekend (September 2-3, 2017).

“The special weekend will celebrate the opening of the freshwater fishing season on September 1 and give people the chance to try their hand at freshwater angling for free,” Minister Kelly said.

“The State Government is committed to supporting the recreational fishing industry which is an important economic driver for WA.

“That is why the State Government is giving Western Australians the chance to go fishing in the South-West on September 2 and 3 without the need for a freshwater fishing licence.”

To celebrate the Minister’s announcement, Recfishwest is running Troutfest – a great opportunity for families to spend quality time together outdoors and have a go at freshwater fishing, just in time for Fathers’ Day!

Recfishwest is teaming up with the Western Australian Trout and Freshwater Angling Association (WATFAA)  to run Perth’s biggest family freshwater event, Troutfest.

This event is set to highlight the fantastic fishing available at Drakesbrook Weir, where participants will have the opportunity to release trout grown at the hatchery in Pemberton.

Trout are stocked every year by the fisheries division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and this year the public get to participate directly in improving freshwater fishing experiences.

This event aims to be the freshwater version of Snapper Guardians – a fun day out for the whole family to enjoy!

Event details:
• Saturday 2 September, 2017.
• Starts at 10.00am to 1.30pm.
• Drakesbrook Weir, Waroona.

The day will include:
• Trout stocking.
• Freshwater fishing tuition for all ages.
• Fly casting.
• Freshwater tackle and rigging information and demonstrations.

Troutfest will be a great occasion for families and friends to get along to a regularly stocked waterway to experience what freshwater fishing is all about.

Participants will also have access to WATFAA members who will provide expert advice and tutelage during their fly and lure casting lessons and tackle and rigging demonstrations.

For many, this fishery is clouded in mystery, where in reality it is all about getting into the bush, having a cast and enjoying some of the best parts of WA. So why not bring the family along and be a part of something special?

Troutfest promotes sustainable, accessible, enjoyable and safe fishing for the benefit of the community and will help encourage freshwater fishing in the South West.

Due to the popularity of this event, registrations are essential so Recfishwest can provide the best possible experience for you and your family. So please register here

Click here to view the flyer for this year’s anticipated Troutfest!

For more information about fishing for freshwater trout, visit I Love Fishing here.

To view the Minister’s media statement, click here.

Trout at Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s trout hatchery at Pemberton.

Continue Reading

September 09, 2024

2024 Troutfest highlights WA’s big love for trout and freshwater fishing

The eighth annual edition of Troutfest produced the biggest turnout yet, with beautiful weather and a lively crowd of around 400 people providing a fitting celebration of our South-West freshwater fishery!    More…

Read More

September 02, 2024

Recfishwest calls for “criticial” Government policy to protect environment and fishing access from wind farm developers

Recfishwest is bitterly disappointed with the Minister for Climate Change and Energy’s announcement declaring two areas off the Bunbury Coast locations for offshore wind energy (OWE) development. Recfishwest…

Read More

August 30, 2024

Community’s joy at Cockburn Sound’s crabbing comeback

Having fished in Cockburn Sound for 57 years man and boy, Cockburn Power Boats Club member Don Beisley is thrilled to have the chance to go crabbing with his grandkids in the Sound this summer. This opportunity…

Read More

August 29, 2024

Karratha kids reel in big catches and smiles at Recfishwest fishing clinic

Heaps of smiles, bent rods and a feed of fish – it was the perfect recipe for happy local kids who took part in Recfishwest’s Karratha fishing clinics at 40 mile beach, Gnoorea Point. The Santos-sponsored clinics…

Read More

August 29, 2024

Speedy Spanish mackerel shine for science in Pilbara fishing comps

Everything about Spanish mackerel screams aggression, speed and strength.  These dynamic pelagics can reach speeds of 50kmh chasing down prey, launch many metres into the air hitting lures and can grow up to 40cm…

Read More

August 28, 2024

How Recfishwest’s community grants can help your fishing-related project

Do you have a fishing-related project or event that could use better financial support or resources?   With round 15 of Recfishwest’s community grant applications closing on 15 September, now is the time to…

Read More