Rainbow trout released into rebirthed Kenny Res

SEVERAL bodies of water around Bendigo including a recently rejuvenated Kennington Reservoir in Strathdale have been stocked with hundreds of catchable-sized rainbow trout by the Victorian Fisheries Authority.

This is the first release in Kennington Reservoir (500 fish) for some time after protracted repair work saw it almost completely drained.

The $2 million project involved the refurbishment of its dam wall, the construction of a new concrete spillway wall and fishing jetty, the replacement of asphalt footpaths, new fencing along the dam wall, removal of vegetation and the reinstatement of landscaping.

Crusoe Reservoir in Kangaroo Flat also took in 450 fish, Forest Lake in Kangaroo Flat 200 and Lake Neangar in Eaglehawk 300.

Backed by the State Government’s $96 million Go Fishing and Boating plan and the reinvestment of recreational fishing licence fees, the trout are amongst 10 million fish being stocked annually into lakes and rivers to improve fishing opportunities.

Many of these locations feature fishing platforms, walking tracks, playgrounds, barbecue facilities and toilets.

All the trout stocked were delivered by the Fisheries Authority’s Snobs Creek hatchery and weigh approximately 180 grams each – an ideal size for newcomers.

“We’re making it easier for families to get outdoors and enjoy nature — stocking thousands of rainbow trout across Victoria so kids can cast a line these school holidays,” Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos said.

“Our nation-leading fish stocking program ensures families can have a fun, free and healthy day out.”

Enthusiasts are reminded that in Family Fishing Lakes a daily bag limit of 5 trout applies, of which only 2 can exceed 35 centimetres.

More information about limits, permitted equipment and licensing can be found in the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide, available from bait and tackle shops, on the Victorian Fisheries Authority website or via the Vic Fishing mobile app.