Fishing returns for the hooked

Skilled: Lesinda Keirl was only three-and-a-half years old when she won Alfredton Rotary Club’s 2018 fishing competition. She gets out to fish with brother, Royce. Photo: FILE

NORMALLY out with school groups, teaching responsible, sustainable fishing practices, not-for-profit group, Fishcare Victoria is currently inactive because of pandemic restrictions.

President of Fishcare Central Highlands, John McNeight said his team has missed educating young people all about the basics of fishing, and heading out to catch fish themselves.

“It’s been shocking. Our whole group hasn’t been able to do anything,” he said.

“Everyone’s been bored because they can’t go fishing and sit on the edge of the lake. It’s monotonous.”

With the Premier’s slight lift on COVID-19 restrictions this week, fishing lovers can begin to return to their hobby, and Mr McNeight said this is a “great relief for everybody” in his community.

“So many people will be glad they can go for a fishing day somewhere. My son rang me and said he’s just got to get out, and a lot of people will be. It’s a big release.

“The comps will all start back up again, but angling club meetings won’t be able to start yet because they’re only allowed 10 people,” he said.

Fishcare Central Highlands expects to relaunch their operations in September, and the schools’ program in October.

Mr McNeight said a children’s fishing day was planned for September, but it may be difficult to coordinate, and teach practical skills, if 1.5m social distancing is still in place.

His team is looking for more members to teach groups basic skills like casting, knot tying and bait identification.

Call John McNeight on 0490 152 641 or visit fishcare.org.au.