Yellowtail kingfish is a species known to give recreational fishers a run for their money, but the odds of future catches off Perth shortened today when Fisheries Minister Don Punch joined Recfishwest to release 5,000 more juveniles into Perth waters.
Hatched and reared at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Marine Finfish Hatchery in Fremantle, the juvenile fish released from the Cockburn Power Boats Association boat ramp in Coogee have provided another boost to metropolitan Perth's yellowtail kingfish stocks.
The McGowan Government's recreational fishing COVID-19 Stimulus Package includes a three-year commitment to barramundi, pink snapper and yellowtail kingfish stocking projects across Western Australia.
Yellowtail kingfish are popular as an aquaculture species and ideal for fish stocking because they are hardy, fast growing and a great table fish. They are favoured by recreational fishers due to their reputation as sport-fishing speedsters and the challenging reef areas they inhabit.
Metropolitan boat fishers often target kingfish on nearshore reefs, such as those around Rottnest, as well as the Three Mile Reef that runs along Perth's northern coastline. The new North Metropolitan Artificial Reef is also anticipated to attract the yellowtail kingies.
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
"The McGowan Government has listened to what WA recreational fishers want and committed $6 million to development initiatives; like building new artificial reefs, supporting innovative fish stocking programs and enhancing regional fishing tourism.
"So far more than 20,000 yellowtail kingfish have been released in Perth waters and many of today's juveniles could grow to three kilograms within just 18 months - and I am sure recfishers cannot wait for some of these fish to start showing up in their catch in the next few years.
"Western Australians love their fishing and the industry supports local jobs while also generating an estimated $2.4 billion a year for our State's economy."
As stated by Cockburn MLA David Scaife:
"Cockburn Sound is a treasured part of my local community - a place where people work, boat and fish.
"The release of 5,000 juvenile yellowtail kingfish demonstrates the McGowan Government's commitment to recfishing in Perth waters and to supporting jobs in our fishing industry.
"I look forward to hearing tales from local recfishers about landing these fish in the coming years."
