A recent study of the Crater Lakes (Purrumbete and Bullen Merri) found the reintroduction of Chinook salmon has provided a great return to anglers!
The study, funded by recreational fishing licence fees, assessed the performance of these popular fisheries after salmon stocking resumed in 2012.
According to the Victorian Fisheries Authority, over the 4 year study 2,367 fish were caught and the vast majority of more than 1,000 anglers surveyed were satisfied with their fishing experience.
From March 2016, social media reports showed some truly impressive fish were caught including salmon over 8 kg, brown trout to 6 kg and rainbow trout to 3 kg.
The study estimated the Purrumbete recreational fishery to be worth over $2 million annually, providing enormous social and economic benefits to anglers and the regional community.
Rob Hems, Secretary of the Lake Purrumbete Angling Club, said the project confirms the return of the salmon has created world class trophy fishing and a huge economic benefit to the region.
“At this rate, it wont be belong before we’re back to the halcyon days of the 1980s when 20 lb Chinook salmon were caught.”
For a copy of the study email brett.ingram@vfa.vic.gov.au.
