Inland Fisheries’ Early Christmas Present to Anglers

The Inland Fisheries Service stocked a total of 1,100 trophy size Atlantic salmon weighing around 4 kg into three waters in the south on Thursday 17 December – just in time for Christmas holiday fishing.

Bradys Lake received 550, while Lake Meadowbank and Craigbourne Dam each received around 275 of these big fish – ex-brood stock donated by Saltas Pty Ltd.

The Service regularly stocks large domestic trout and trophy salmon into waters that are popular fishing destinations, particularly those close to population centres, and with easy access and facilities for families.

These stockings of trophy salmon, in particular, tend to cause a stir amongst local anglers and increase the interest in freshwater fishing. The aim is to attract families, young anglers and novice fishers, to encourage them to get a licence, get outdoors and enjoy one of life’s simple pleasures.

The timing of today’s release – just before Christmas – could not be better and the fishery is in the best possible condition this summer.

Inland waters filled dramatically this year with the excellent rainfall, and the Service has been boosting fish stocks at a number of fisheries around the State over recent months so as to capitalize on the optimal conditions.

Craigbourne Dam should be well worth a visit this Christmas for southern based anglers. It has made an amazing recovery since being practically empty last summer. It began refilling in winter and has returned from the brink of non-existence this season. The Service stocked it through winter and early spring with 1,120 Atlantic salmon, 520 adult wild brown trout and 900 fingerling brown trout, followed in late Spring with the release of a further 500 Atlantic salmon, 100 adult rainbow trout and 20 adult brook trout. It has now received 275 trophy salmon and a further large stocking is planned for just before Christmas. Stay tuned!