Local waters ready for holiday fishing

Melton MP Steve McGhie helping to release rainbow trout into Navan Park Lake. (Supplied)

By Olivia Condous

Residents of Melton and surrounding suburbs will be able to enjoy some fishing fun these school holidays with a local lake stocked with fish.

The Victorian government has released thousands of catchable-sized rainbow trout into 19 lakes across greater Melbourne, including 600 fish in the lake at Navan Park in Melton West.

The fish stockings have been funded by recreational fishing license fees and are part of the state government’s Go Fishing Victoria initiative, designed to encourage residents to partake in recreational fishing.

The rainbow trout used were grown by the Victorian Fisheries Authority at the Snobs Creek hatchery near Eildon.

There is a daily bag limit of five on the number of fish and only two trout taken can exceed 35 centimetres.

Victorian fishing minister Melissa Horne said the stocking of local lakes with the trout provided the perfect opportunity for families and kids to get outdoors and try their luck at fishing.

“Rainbow trout are ideal for fishers of all ages and skill levels as they’re relatively easy to catch, making it a great day out on the water,” Ms Horne said.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said it was great to see local waters stocked at Navan Park Lake in time for the school holidays.

“This is a wonderful way for families and kids to get active and enjoy their time outdoors with loved ones, while landing their first ever fish, so close to home.”

Details: www.vfa.vic.gov.au/holidaytrout