Thousands of yearling trout are being released into the Happy Valley Reservoir today, as the State Government launches its new Recreational Fishing Authority to enhance fishing and tourism opportunities in South Australia.
The Premier joined young anglers for the release of almost 3,000 trout to restock the reservoir, as part of the Government’s $6.6 million election commitment to boost recreational fishing opportunities across the state.
Former chief executive of the Department of Environment and Water, John Schutz, himself a keen angler, will head up the new Recreational Fishing Authority.
The Authority will sit with the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, Rhiannon Pearce, and will oversee initiatives aimed at improving access and experiences for recreational fishers.
These include:
- opening up more freshwater fishing sites
- supporting more children's fishing clinics
- fast-tracking freshwater fish stocking programs
- supporting community fishing events, competitions and tourism initiatives
- supporting RecFish SA's tagging and translocation program
As part of the commitment, RecFish SA will receive $1.75 million over four years to represent the interests of recreational fishers and to fund its pioneering tagging and translocation program.
A further $1 million will be spent enhancing recreational fishing infrastructure including jetty rod holders, bait boards and fish filleting tables at popular fishing spots throughout the state.
An estimated 360,000 South Australians throw a line in annually, making it one of the largest recreational pursuits in the state.
Recreational fishing is also a significant economic driver for South Australia, generating an estimated $1 billion annually including $403 million in tourism.
The new Authority will work across the whole of government, providing a centralised home for recreational fishing policy and development in South Australia. As well as today’s event, the Authority has also just opened the Tod Reservoir on the Eyre Peninsula for recreational fishing.
The trout released at Happy Valley Reservoir provide recreational fishing opportunities for visitors casting a line from the shore or personal watercraft.
People fishing South Australia’s reservoirs can attain a permit here.
Quotes attributable to John Schutz, Head, Recreational Fishing Authority
It's exciting to be part of establishing the new Authority. As a lifelong fisher, I am committed to growing the recreational fishing sector and enhancing opportunities for more people to get involved with fishing.
Quotes attributable to Asher Dezsery, Chief Executive Officer of RecFish SA
RecFish SA strongly supports the South Australian Government’s commitment to fish stocking. The stocking of trout into Happy Valley Reservoir is an example of how new fisheries can be established quickly
RecFish SA looks forward to working closely with the newly formed Recreational Fishing Authority to grow recreational fishing, improve access and support broader fisheries management outcomes across South Australia.
