Almost 3,000 trout are being released into Happy Valley Reservoir today, giving South Australian anglers another reason to cast a line as a new authority dedicated to recreational fishing officially launches.
The yearling trout are being used to restock the popular reservoir in Adelaide’s south as part of a $6.6 million State Government commitment aimed at expanding fishing opportunities across South Australia.
The release coincides with the launch of the new Recreational Fishing Authority, which will oversee projects designed to improve fishing access, infrastructure and experiences across the state.
Former Department of Environment and Water chief executive and keen angler John Schutz will head the new authority.
Among its priorities will be opening more freshwater fishing locations, speeding up fish stocking programs, supporting children’s fishing clinics and backing community fishing events, competitions and tourism initiatives.
Happy Valley Reservoir already allows fishing from the shoreline and personal watercraft, with anglers required to hold a reservoir fishing permit.
The new authority has also opened Tod Reservoir on the Eyre Peninsula to recreational fishing.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said recreational fishing was one of the state’s most popular outdoor activities.
“Recreational fishing is a great way to get outdoors, be active and improve wellbeing for people of all ages,” he said.
Around 360,000 South Australians are estimated to go fishing each year, with the recreational fishing sector contributing an estimated $1 billion annually to the state’s economy, including around $403 million through tourism.
The investment will also see RecFish SA receive $1.75 million over four years to represent recreational fishers and continue its fish tagging and translocation program.
Another $1 million has been allocated to fishing infrastructure, including new rod holders, bait boards and fish-filleting tables at popular fishing locations.
Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Rhiannon Pearce said the new authority would help create more opportunities for locals and visitors to fish across South Australia.
“As well as the social, health and wellbeing benefits, recreational fishing also supports regional jobs and communities across the state,” she said.
For Happy Valley locals, the latest stocking adds thousands more trout to a reservoir already becoming a popular fishing destination close to metropolitan Adelaide.
Reservoir fishing permits are available through SA Water.
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