Tasmanian’s Trout Fishery on the World Stage

Tasmania’s wild trout fishery will be on the world stage next year when it hosts the Commonwealth Fly Fishing Championships. Deputy Premier Bryan Green and the Minister for Tourism Scott Bacon announced the State will host the championships over four days in February.
Speaking at Four Springs Lake for the opening of the season, Mr Green said 16 teams from 12 countries were now confirmed for the event to be held at five fishing locations around the State.

“The trout season is expected to be one of the best in decades so there will be no better time to host an international event and showcase our fabulous trout fishery,” Mr Green said.

“The fact that Tasmania was selected to host the Commonwealth championships demonstrates the value of the trout fishery on a world scale and what an asset it is to the State and Australia.

Mr Bacon said Tasmania’s wild trout fishery was not just a unique recreational asset but a major tourism drawcard.

“The image of Tasmania’s trout fishery is synonymous with the State’s branding and tourism marketing,” Mr Bacon said.

“We will work to leverage the exposure that this event will generate in some of our core markets – particularly the UK, Asia and New Zealand- and highlight Tasmania as a world class destination for fly fishing among other nature-based experiences.

“The event will provide an immediate benefit for local businesses in regional areas and generate interest through national and international media coverage.

The championships will be held from February 14-18 and include teams from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, South Africa, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malta Isle of Man, Singapore and Malaysia.

Chairman of the Organising Committee Malcolm Crosse said Tasmanian anglers were very supportive with many volunteering to help during the event.

“We have also received fantastic support from the Tasmanian Government through Tourism and Events Tasmania and Country Club Tasmania, which are the two major sponsors, as well as the Inland Fisheries Service, Meander Valley Council and Europcar,” Mr Crosse said.

Mr Crosse said organisers were also seeking interest from local businesses to take part in various aspects of the event including a celebrity fishing competition and a public fly fishing expo.

Individual or businesses wishing to be involved in the event should contact Malcolm Cross on 0429 870 550 or visit the Fly Fish Australia website at www.flyfishaustralia.com.au

For a copy of the Tasmanian Government Media Statement, go to Tasmania's Trout Fishery on the World Stage