Club is happy that ban will restore fish and bay health

LEOPOLD Angling and Aquatic Club’s Ivan Bereza says he is looking forward to a great improvement in fishing following the end of commercial nets being used in Corio Bay.

On April 1, commercial netting was banned from Corio Bay as part of the state government’s Target One Million plan.

Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville said it was a great result for local recreational fishers.

“The fishermen I have spoken to tell me there’s been a great improvement in fishing with flathead,calamari and whiting being caught regularly.

“We said that all commercial net fishing would be removed from Corio Bay by April 2018 and that’s exactly what we’ve done.

“Our bay fishery is going from strength to strength and removing commercial net fishing will only hasten its development as a mecca for saltwater anglers.”

Mr Bereza said he was looking forward to fishing improving enormously and the health of the bay getting back to what it was.

“This whole area was netted every night which took all the fish,” he said.

“Going net free will have a huge benefit on the Geelong community socially and for tourism.”

To celebrate the end of commercial net fishing from Corio Bay, Leopold Angling and Aquatic Club will host a family fun day next week.

The free event on Sunday April 15 will include kids’ activities, jumping castles, a barbecue, discounted fishing gear, a casting competition, boat and marine displays, raffles, prizes and more.

One of Australia’s best fishing talents Aaron Habgood will be a special guest on the day, while Ms Neville is expected to address the crowd.

The family fun day is at 711-729 Portarlington Highway, Leopold, on Sunday April 15 between 10am and 3pm.

The event is sponsored by Fisheries Victoria and the state government.