Fishers from across Victoria will have the chance to reel in a golden fish as the Golden Tag fishing competition kicks off.
Minister for Fishing and Boating, Jaala Pulford said fishers could head to East Gippsland and North East Victoria for their chance to catch specially tagged fish worth up to $10,000.
“One thousand fish are being tagged in lakes, rivers and estuaries including dusky flathead, black bream, trout and Murray cod,” Ms Pulford said.
“The first 10 fishers who report the capture of a tagged fish will take home a $10,000 cheque, with subsequent captures netting a $2,000 cash prize for the lucky fisher,” she said.
Ms Pulford said recreational fishing in Gippsland and the North East was big business, supporting more than 3,800 jobs and contributing more than $600 million to the economy annually.
“Summer bushfires have reduced visitor numbers substantially during what is normally the busiest time of year for accommodation providers, retailers and service providers,” she said.
Ms Pulford said the Victorian Fisheries Authority would run the competition for 12 months from 1 March.
Further information as well as updates on the number of tagged fish caught can be accessed at this PS News link.