Camden Council is inviting local fishers to cast a line for science, sustainability and reel in some prizes as the Hook, Line & Measure competition returns in 2026.
Hook, Line & Measure is a Council-run citizen science program which encourages residents to record and submit details of their fishing catches from the Nepean River and other local waterways. By logging the species, size and location of fish caught or observed, participants are helping to build a clearer picture of Camden's waterways.
The 2026 competition opens today (Friday 16 January) and closes on Monday 16 March, with winners to be contacted on Wednesday 18 March.
To enter, participants simply complete a submission form and report their catch to Council. Every valid submission is automatically entered into the prize draw, so every cast really does count.
There are four vouchers to be won, all from local fishing stores - three valid submissions will be randomly selected to each receive a $150 voucher and the angler who lands the largest carp will win the major $300 voucher. There are also 30 brag mats up for grabs, available for every valid entry and with a limit of one per person.
A free workshop will also be held in partnership with OzFish on Saturday 28 February. The workshop will focus on best practice fishing techniques, including responsible fishing, knots, casting, bait selection, invasive species awareness and waterway health.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the competition played an important role in supporting healthier waterways.
"The information we collect through this project is presented on the Camden Open Data Portal through an interactive map and data table," she said.
"This helps to create a baseline dataset on fish populations, distribution and recreational fishing activity. Fishers can choose to keep their fishing location hidden, with detailed location data provided only to Council.
"The program also helps to show the best recreational fishing spots and supports Council in planning and delivering future waterway projects across the area."
Hook, Line & Measure is open to all local fishers, whether seasoned pros or first-timers. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit bit.ly/hooklinemeasurecamden
