Fishing clubs and organisations are being encouraged to host their own 'Gone Fishing Day' events as part of the State-wide celebrations on Sunday, October 13, Bryan Van Der Walt, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Program Leader Recreational Fisheries, said today.
Clubs can now apply for a fishing package or a grant of up to $2,000 to host fishing activities such as casting and fishing workshops and information sessions as part of their event.
The fishing package consists of rod and reel sets, some giveaways/prizes and advisory information. Alternatively, clubs can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to purchase items such as fishing gear, bait, food and non-alcoholic drinks, equipment hire, etc to run their local Gone Fishing Day event.
Activities to restore fish habitat, through replanting and/or weeding creek banks, on Gone Fishing Day are also eligible to apply.
"Gone Fishing Day is a fantastic opportunity to attract keen fishers to take to the water and share the benefits of this fun, healthy outdoor activity for everyone around the State, Mr Van Der Walt said.
"Experienced fishers and newcomers can both participate on the day, sharing tips and experience, and help usher in the newest generation of young anglers."
Applications for grants and fishing packages close on 8 July 2024.
Once again, DPI will be running six major events around NSW with a range of fun activities including learn to fish sessions with experts, casting competitions as well as lots of fishing giveaways, including fishing guides, fishing lures and other fishing gear.
Recreational fishing is a $3.4 billion industry that supports the equivalent of 14,000 full-time jobs around our state. It's important to acknowledge this day and the positive impact this industry has on our economy and communities.
Gone Fishing Day is proudly supported by NSW DPI with funding from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts.
DPI event locations will be announced over the coming months.
Application forms and grant funding guidelines are available at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/go-fishing-nsw
Gone Fishing Day is run in collaboration with the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation.
"It doesn't matter if you haven't fished before or if you're the keenest of anglers, Gone Fishing Day is for everyone," Mr Van Der Walt said.
"We are so fortunate here in NSW to have so many exceptional fishing locations, both inland and coastal, which are ranked among some of the best in the world.
"Gone Fishing Day is a great opportunity for people to get out on the water and take advantage of these terrific locations.
"Mark your calendars for Gone Fishing Day, Sunday 13 October 2024."
