BAIRNSDALE
Sunday 1 November 2026
10am – 2pm
Howitt Park, Bairnsdale – near the Backwater Footbridge
Join Fishcare Victoria for a FREE, family-friendly day of fishing, fun and environmental education as our Catch A Carp campaign heads to Bairnsdale!
Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, there’s something for everyone. Come along, enjoy the activities and learn how removing invasive carp can help protect our native fish and local waterways.
What’s happening on the day?
Free family fishing activities – All bait and fishing equipment supplied. No experience necessary!
Carp fishing competition – Prizes for the biggest and heaviest carp caught on the day within 5 km of Bairnsdale.
Carp cooking demonstrations – Discover ways to prepare and cook carp with Keith Bell from K & C Fisheries.
Games, giveaways and prizes – Fun activities and educational displays for all ages.
Sausage sizzle and refreshments – Food and drinks available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the Paynesville Volunteer Coastguard.
Meet our community Partners
Paynesville Volunteer Coastguard
East Gippsland Shire Council
East Gippsland CMA
Gippsland Lakes Angling Club
Why Catch a Carp?
European carp are an introduced pest species that can damage aquatic habitats, increase water turbidity and impact native fish populations.
Through the Catch A Carp campaign, we’re helping communities understand the impacts of carp and encouraging responsible fishing practices that support healthier waterways.
Event Details
Date: Sunday 1 November 2026
Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Howitt Park, Bairnsdale, near the Backwater Footbridge
Cost: FREE
Who: Everyone welcome – families, children, beginners and experienced anglers!
All fishing equipment and bait will be provided for organised activities.
This project is funded by the Recreational Fishing Licence (RFL) Trust Fund and delivered by Fishcare Victoria, a registered charity dedicated to fishing education and the protection of our aquatic environments.
