Recreational fishers in NSW will band together once again on ‘Gone Fishing Day’ for activities and fishing workshops that aim to connect the one million fishers state-wide and reel in keen, new fishers to the hobby.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is encouraging fishing clubs and organisations in the region to host their own Gone Fishing Day event with the help of funding grants of up to $2,000.
“The series of events offer something for everyone, from workshops that teach beginners how to hook a fish to activities that help veteran freshwater anglers sharpen their skills,” Ms Cooke said.
“Mark 9 October in your calendar; Gone Fishing Day is on again.”
“The grants can be used to purchase fishing gear, bait, food and drinks or hire equipment to assist in holding an event for Gone Fishing Day.”
“Gone Fishing Day packages are also up for grabs as part of the grants which will put rods, reels, bags and giveaways into the hands of our local fishing clubs.
The Department of Primary Industries will also be hosting free community fishing events throughout NSW, to encourage everyone to wet a line.
NSW Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders said Gone Fishing Day is back by popular demand.
“Every year, fishers young and old, get involved, and I’m looking forward to seeing our fishers in rural and regional areas turn out to make the 2022 Gone Fishing Day the biggest and best one yet,” the Minister said.
“Application forms and grant funding guidelines are now on the DPI website, so if your local fishing club wants to get involved, then get your submission in now.”
The NSW recreational fishing industry and its one million anglers pump $3.4 billion into the economy each year.
Grant applications are open until Tuesday 6 September 2022. Application forms and grant funding guidelines are available at
www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/go-fishing-nsw
Gone Fishing Day is a national initiative organised by the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation, with activities in NSW supported by the Recreational Fishing Trust and DPI.
