The barramundi stocks of the Ross River Dam will soon get a boost, with Townsville City Council securing the State approvals needed to electrofish the spillway and restore stocks upstream.
The approved electrofishing operation, slated to start in March, will see the far-flung fish trapped downstream of the dam wall safely stunned, collected and transported back to the dam.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto, who is a strong advocate for recreational use of the Ross River Dam, said the operation would ensure local anglers could access the best catches inside the dam.
"At present, Stage 1 of our Recreational Use of Ross River Dam policy allows fishing off the dedicated spit only – fishing downstream in the spillway is prohibited because of the dangers that changing conditions pose to those seeking to fish in this area," Cr Dametto said.
"This isn't about ruining anyone's fun, it's about reducing the likelihood of someone falling into the water if there was to be a sudden change in conditions. It has been disappointing to hear that Council staff warning people of these dangers have been copping abuse - no-one deserves that while they are at work and simply doing their job.
"The spillway is off-limits to the public because of the inherent danger. The large volumes of water released from the dam could, in a short period of time, turn what appears to be a safe place to fish, into a raging torrent.
"The last thing anyone wants is to watch their mate swept away or even worse feel like they are obligated to dive in to save them, putting their own life at risk. This also puts the lives of volunteers and emergency workers at risk when a swift water rescue becomes necessary.
If we have any hope of getting to Stage 2 of the Ross River Dam opening which includes fishing from a boat on the dam, we must demonstrate that we can adhere to the rules and safety requirements of Stage 1 – fishing from the bank.
Cr Dametto said Council was pursuing the electrofishing option as it was committed to supporting safe and enjoyable recreational use of the dam.
"Electrofishing is a controlled and effective method for relocating fish that become trapped in the spillway zone," Cr Dametto said.
"With the approvals from the State Government now signed off, Council crews can carry out this important work and return these fish to areas where the community can safely fish.
"The idea is that if people can't act responsibly, we will take steps to remove the temptation by sending the stocks back upstream where they can be safely fished.
"Fishing is also perfectly legal along the banks of the Ross River away from any Council-owned water infrastructure, which is very clearly signed.
"As a local government we are working really hard to balance our responsibility to prioritise public safety, as well as support our recreational fishers to do what they love, so please work with us."
Council reminds the community that it is not recommended to eat fish caught in the Ross River Dam due to blue-green algae in the dam.
Between December and February, the designated recreational fishing area at the dam is open from 5:30am to 7pm, seven days a week.
