Get hooked on fishing this weekend

RECREATIONAL fishers and seafood lovers can celebrate National Gone Fishing Day this weekend by joining the festivities at Portarlington’s ‘Hooked on Bellarine’ extravaganza.
Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville said the free family-friendly event on Sunday would showcase the Bellarine Peninsula as a seafood and fishing mecca.
Hosted by the Victorian Fisheries Authority and supported by Bellarine Bayside Coastal Management, the event is funded by phase two of the State Government’s $35 million Target One Million plan to get more people fishing, more often, in more places.
There will be something for everyone, including free ‘come and try’ fishing clinics for kids and novices with tuition from experts. Rods, bait and tackle will be provided.
Stands selling freshly cooked seafood and locally made produce, including blue mussels that Portarlington is famous for will also be available.
For those keen to understand more about what seafood is grown locally and across Victoria can drop into the aquaculture hub.
Fishcare will run casting competitions and there will be an expert fishing panel with tips on catching more snapper, King George whiting and gummy sharks.
Live music will run throughout the day, including Shy with Dallas Holden and Simon Towers, local performers, and the popular children’s group Mik Maks.
The free event is on Sunday October 20 at the Portarlington Safe Harbour Foreshore from 10am until 4pm.
For more information visit vfa.vic.gov.au/hookedonbellarine.