In a move to increase recreational fishing among women and children, the State Government has announced a new allocation of $200,000 in its 2024 budget. The funding will support RecFish SA’s initiatives, specifically the expansion of the Reel Women and Reeling-In Junior Anglers programs, which aim to enhance diversity and participation within the sector.
Recreational fishing is a significant contributor to South Australia’s economy, providing around $1 billion annually. Official estimates suggest that around 356,000 South Australians, or about one in four, engage in recreational fishing across the state. Popular catches include species such as King George Whiting, Blue Crab, Pipi, Australian Herring (Tommy Ruff), and Calamari.
Despite women comprising a third of all recreational fishers in South Australia, amounting to approximately 127,000, there exists a notable gender gap within this activity. The Reel Women program, designed as a women-to-women initiative, strives to bridge this gap by creating an inclusive environment where women of all backgrounds can share and celebrate their fishing experiences. The program offers a variety of activities, including digital campaigns, workshops, events, and an annual awards initiative to acknowledge women leaders in the sport.
On the other hand, the Reeling-In Junior Anglers program targets younger participants aged 5 to 14, who currently represent an estimated 65,000 young fishers. The initiative promotes a comprehensive and ground-level educational approach to fishing. It is primarily delivered through schools and community organisations, instructing essential angling skills in an engaging and culturally sensitive manner. The program aims to empower youth and diverse groups with the confidence and knowledge necessary to explore different fishing environments, be it in saltwater, freshwater, urban or regional settings.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven, spoke about the physical and mental wellbeing benefits that recreational fishing offers. “Recreational fishing is not just a pastime but a vital outdoor activity that promotes wellbeing. Through these programs, we are not only supporting the development of new fishers but also ensuring that participation in recreational fishing is more inclusive and accessible,” stated Minister Scriven.
Andrew Harris from RecFish SA highlighted the impact of government support on these initiatives. “This funding from the State Government is crucial for us to continue advancing inclusivity in fishing. Our aim is to create a welcoming and safe environment that facilitates easy and enjoyable participation for women and children across South Australia,” he noted.
The State Government’s support of these programs aims to foster a more inclusive and diverse recreational fishing community. The programs also aim to dismantle any existing gender or cultural barriers that might discourage participation in fishing.
For further information on the Reel Women, and Reeling-In Junior Anglers programs visit www.recfish.org.au
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