March 1, 2019
VRFish and Gippsland Lakes Recreational Fishing Alliance met with the Victorian Fisheries Authority in Lakes Entrance to learn they are drafting legislation to progress the commercial netting buy-back in the Gippsland Lakes.
Minister for Fishing and Boating Jaala Pulford MP has stated the buyout of 10 Gippsland Lakes Access Licences will be complete by 1 April 2020. Bait access licenses will remain.
Now that the date has been set, it is time to start planning to boost our fish stocks even further through restocking programs for black bream, estuary perch, dusky flathead and more Australian bass. VRFish also spoke about bringing recreational fishers together in the future to develop a recovery plan that includes management, monitoring and data collection by our sector, increased stewardship and working closely with the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority on long-term programs to improve fish habitat and water quality.
We want to see more mums, dads and kids from all across Victoria having a great time throwing in a line and having a good chance of catching a fish in the Gippsland Lakes.
