The NSW Government invites everyone from curious beginners to experienced anglers to join in the celebration of Gone Fishing Day this Sunday, 19 October.
Free community events are being held in Sydney (Mort Bay Park), Evans Head (Clarrie Kirkland Reserve), Gosford (Lions Park), Forbes (Lake Forbes Waterpark), and Inverell (Campbell Park), with activities kicking off at 9am.
Fishing Day is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors, cast a line, and make the most of NSW's world-class fishing locations.
Whether you are a first-time fisher or chasing your next big catch, we want everyone to get involved in Gone Fishing Day to enjoy the benefits and thrill of fishing.
Aspiring fishers are invited to come along to one of the free events hosted by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) this Sunday to take part in a beginner-friendly workshop, get your hands on some helpful resources from the Fishcare advisory trailer, and even a few free giveaways, to help build a lifelong hobby.
Experienced fishers will have the chance to sharpen their skills with advice from DPIRD Education Officers and Fishcare Volunteers and share the joy of fishing with their families and friends through hands-on sessions.
Gone Fishing Day festivities will take place across NSW, with local fishing clubs, organisations, and community groups hosting events and activities, made possible through support from Gone Fishing Day grants and resource packages.
Fishing clubs and organisations were able to apply for either fishing packages, consisting of rod and reel sets, bags, giveaways and advisory information for participants attending events, or a grant of up to $2,000 to purchase items required to run their own Gone Fishing Day fishing events.
40 fishing clubs and organisations have received fishing packages filled with gear to support their local events, while another 44 have been awarded grants of up to $2,000 to help run their own events to promote and celebrate fishing as a fun, healthy, outdoors activity.
Gone Fishing Day is supported by the DPIRD and with funding from the Recreational Fishing Trusts, as part of the 'Fish for life - Building a healthy fishing future' initiative.