Hundreds of trout fry, yearlings and ex-breeding fish will today be released into Drakesbrook Weir near Waroona.
The McGowan Government is supporting freshwater fish stocking programs to provide quality and enjoyable fishing experiences for anglers across the South-West.
Trout for the stocking program are bred at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre.
The trout are released as part of 'Troutfest', an annual community stocking event organised by Recfishwest and the Shire of Waroona.
Now in its sixth year, Troutfest attracts hundreds of visitors who have the opportunity to release trout into the weir, as well as try their luck at catching a fish.
Around 185,000 rainbow and brown trout fingerlings, yearlings and ex-broodstock will be released as part of this year's stocking program.
There are 55 dam and river locations that will be stocked across the South-West, Great Southern and Peel regions, including Drakesbrook Weir.
Locations are chosen in consultation with Recfishwest to ensure there are many high-quality trout fishing destinations around the south of the State, supporting regional economies, jobs and tourism.
Nearly 10,000 anglers are licensed for freshwater fishing in Western Australia.
Anglers have the opportunity to provide feedback on stocking programs and freshwater fishing experiences by completing the department's Western Australian Freshwater Angling Survey, which is now open.
The information gathered through the survey will help support the continued improvement of freshwater fish stocking programs in WA.
To complete the survey, visit https://questionpro.com/t/AOhvIZtxNU
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
"Trout fishing is not only a popular fishing experience, it also injects around $20 million annually into our regional economies.
"Community events like Troutfest are a fantastic way to get families involved and demonstrate the importance of stocking programs to maintaining sustainable freshwater fisheries.
"I also encourage our freshwater fishers to take the opportunity to complete the Western Australian Freshwater Angling Survey so we can ensure our valuable freshwater fisheries can provide enjoyable fishing experiences for all into the future."
As stated by Murray-Wellington MLA Robyn Clarke:
"Trout fishing is one of the many popular water-based activities and experiences on offer in Murray-Wellington.
"Events like Troutfest and restocking programs for both trout and marron continue to show the community the importance of sustainable fishing and conservation.
"The Waroona Troutfest is one I look forward to each year, as it brings families together and puts smaller towns like Waroona on the map for freshwater fishers across the State to visit."
