Catch some funding for fish stocking

February 16, 2018

APPLICATIONS for the NSW Department of Primary Industries 2018-19 Dollar for Dollar Native Fish Stocking Program are now open, with angling and community groups, individuals, councils and other relevant organisations encouraged to apply for funding.

The program, which is now in its 20th season, offers matching funding to buy fish from registered private hatcheries for restocking into approved public waters in NSW. DPI Fisheries Manager Jim Harnwell said the program is another great example of NSW fishing licence fees at work, with many hundreds of thousands of fish stocked into various NSW waterways each season.

“The program is highly supported and well received by the community, with up to 100 participating stocking groups participating in each round,” he said. “Fish stocking is recognised for its importance to the community in terms of providing quality recreational fishing, aboriginal and cultural opportunities, conservation outcomes and subsequent social and economic benefits.”

Matching funds between $1000 and $6000 are provided from the Recreational Fishing Trust. Funds are available to stock high-priority recreational fishing species including Australian bass, golden perch and Murray cod, pending their availability. “In the 2017/18 season, unfortunately some Murray cod and golden perch suppliers were not able to take part in the program,” Mr Harnwell said. “Stocking groups wishing to participate in the program are encouraged to contact their preferred supplier before applying.”

It is important that all fish stocking is conducted responsibly in order to protect biodiversity and the aquatic environment. Releasing fish into NSW public waters without a permit is illegal. Applications for the 2018-19 stocking season close on Friday,May 4, 2018. Apply online or refer to https://goo.gl/Pkwjqd for additional information, including hard-copy forms.

Suspected illegal fish stocking can be reported to your local DPI Fisheries office, or to the Fishers Watch hotline on 1800 043 536.

Report any suspected aquatic pests to Aquatic Biosecurity on 02 4916 3877 or email aquatic.pests@dpi.nsw.gov.au