The WA Government has launched a $6 million package to support the state’s recreational fishing industry as part of the WA Recovery Plan.
Developed with Recfishwest, the package includes new artificial reefs, a boost to finfish stocks to increase fishing opportunities in the metropolitan area, and a new state-wide marketing campaign to drive more locals and tourists to WA’s iconic fishing locations.
As part of the funding, a special shallow water reef will be installed off Albany and additional state-of-the art structures will be deployed to create safe fishing meccas off two other regional towns.
The plan will also deliver a significant boost to fish stocks in Perth metropolitan waters, with the stocking of finfish species, like yellowtail kingfish. This will support new fishing opportunities on the planned North Metro Reef, to create a drawcard for tourism and support the 50 fishing tour vessels operating off the Perth coast.
The Cockburn Sound ‘Snapper Guardians’ program will also be extended and an additional one million barramundi will be released annually into Lake Kununurra. In continuing to support and enhance the still water barramundi fishery in the East Kimberley, there’s an opportunity for indigenous economic development through direct employment in fishing tours.
The WA Government is also working with Recfishwest, WA’s peak recreational fishing body, to develop a state-wide marketing campaign for iconic WA fishing experiences, destinations and businesses to help create new jobs and strengthen the recovery.
New promotions to feature in the marketing campaign will include development of a WA Fishing Trails Calendar to not only promote salmon in the South but also showcase barramundi in the North.
For more information see the Recreational fishing hooks new benefits from WA Recovery Plan media statement.
