A $300,000 recreational fishing reef will be a cornerstone commitment of the State Government’s plan to support anglers through the algal bloom.
The reef, which will be designed to support the survival and reproduction of key recreational species and allow real-time monitoring for citizen scientists, schools and researchers, will be located in an area that has been affected by the bloom, which has killed hundreds of marine species since it was detected in March.
Other commitments to support the state’s large recreational fishing community include:
- establishing a fish stocking program in freshwater bodies such as reservoirs and lakes
- opening more reservoirs to recreational fishing where consistent with public health advice
- boosting regional tourism by supporting RecFish SA to deliver a series of four fishing events and competitions in regional areas in conjunction with local tackle stores and businesses
- supporting RecFish SA to deliver a series of fishing forums at local tackle stores, using fishing personalities and local experts
- providing RecFish SA a grant of $200,000 to further support more than 100 community fishing clinics and programs across South Australia, fishing events and competitions, and engagement with recreational fishing clubs to boost participation.
(external site)RecFish SA Executive Officer Asher Dezsery said that recreational fishing in South Australia was "a way of life", and that the announcement "addresses the needs of the environment as we assist it to recover from this unfortunate period in time".
"When fishing tourism stops, the communities reliant on its economy suffer," Mr Dezsery said.
He said the partnership reflected a shared commitment between RecFish SA and the State Government to "re-engaging regional tourism destinations reliant on recreational fishing tourism, sustainable fishing practices, supporting the associated businesses and enhancing recreational opportunities in the state".
"This announcement reaffirms the government's consideration of the recreational fishing sector, which generates over $380 million annually in tourism expenditures across South Australia," Mr Dezsery said.
"This package will bolster opportunities, conservation efforts, and community engagement, ensuring a robust future for recreational fishing not just immediately, however for future generations,” he said.
The measures to support recreational fishing are in addition to the business support packages, which includes grants of up to $10,000 to eligible businesses, and grants of up to $100,000 for significantly impacted commercial fishing licence holders.
For further information on the algal bloom, including grants and other supports available, visit algalbloom.sa.gov.au
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