This year’s Hooked on Bellarine event in Portarlington was a huge success, bringing together families, fishing enthusiasts, and our amazing Fishcare Victoria volunteers for a day filled with fun, learning, and impressive catches! The day was hosted by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), and could not have succeeded without the help from local angling clubs and the Women in Recreational Fishing & Boating Network (WIRFAB)! The day was packed with activities that highlighted both the excitement of fishing and the importance of sustainable practices.

Fishcare’s Free “Come and Try” Fishing Clinics

We had the pleasure of running Come and Try fishing clinics for kids and adults of all ages on the day. We were thrilled to see over 100 kids and around 40 adults participate! With the guidance of our dedicated volunteers—Steve, Roger, Greg, and Nita—everyone had the chance to learn key fishing skills. From knot tying and safe fishing techniques to how to release fish back into the water responsibly, our clinics helped new anglers build confidence and understand the importance of sustainable fishing.

Each child who completed their activity bingo sheets was rewarded with a free fishing rod, thanks to the generous support of the VFA. We loved seeing the kids light up as they ticked off each task, from Ivan’s casting clinic to fish themed activities with Kelly Sports. What made the day unforgettable was seeing a massive 60cm snapper caught by one of our participants, along with Australian salmon and mullet, giving the kids an unforgettable first fishing experience.

Highlights of the Day

One of the day’s standouts was seeing so many young anglers land some impressive fish. A large school of snapper provided a thrilling day of fun, while many others reeled in Australian salmon and mullet. For many, it was their first fishing experience, and the thrill was contagious!

Gabby, our South West Facilitator, made the long drive to Portarlington and was invaluable in helping manage the event. Her dedication and energy were a huge asset to the success of the day.

We also saw an incredible turnout at our booth where visitors learned about local fish species, fishing regulations, and how to protect our waterways. The lure-painting workshops hosted by Kerry, casting clinics, and knot-tying sessions were a hit, offering a hands-on experience for everyone involved.

A Community Effort

The event would not have been possible without the collaboration of local angling clubs, WIRFAB, and of course, our passionate Fishcare volunteers. Their commitment to sharing knowledge and engaging with the community played a big role in making the day both educational and fun.

Beyond the fishing, there were so many other fantastic stalls and activities. Seafood trucks offered delicious local mussels, cooking demonstrations taught the best ways to prepare the catch of the day, and filleting demonstrations provided practical skills for the kitchen. Local artists showcased their work, while kids enjoyed a variety of fun activities, ensuring there was something for everyone.

A Day for the Books

All in all, Hooked on Bellarine 2024 was a tremendous success. We are proud to have been part of an event that not only brought joy to the local community but also reinforced the importance of sustainable fishing practices. We can’t wait to see these new anglers out on the water again soon, equipped with both new skills and a love for our beautiful marine environment.

A massive thank you to everyone who attended, helped, and supported the event, especially our dedicated volunteers. Here’s to many more days like this one!

#HookedOnBellarine #GoneFishingDay #SustainableFishing #FishcareVictoria