Portarlington will celebrate Gone Fishing Day with a one-day festival, inviting recreational fishers and lovers of seafood to sample seafood delights and learn how to better catch and prepare their own.
Hooked on Bellarine, a family-friendly event showcasing the Bellarine Peninsula as a seafood and fishing destination, will take place at the Portarlington Safe Harbour foreshore between 10am and 4pm on Sunday, October 8.
Hosted by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), the event will offer demonstrations of fish filleting, cooking sessions and skill clinics including boat handling and trailer reversing .
The VFA team will present information on research and aquaculture of bay species such as snapper, King George whiting and gummy shark, as well as tips and tricks for knots and rigs.
Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating Network leaders will share fishing and filleting tips, while kids will be well catered for, with virtual reality fishing, prize giveaways and fly fishing instruction offered over the day.
Foodies can enjoy freshly cooked seafood and locally made produce – including blue mussels – from market stalls and relax in the food hub overlooking the waterfront.
Bellarine Member Alison Marchant said the event would have something for everyone
“The Bellarine Peninsula’s got so much to offer fishers, boaters and lovers of seafood so come down, make a weekend of it with the family, and experience it for yourself,” she said.
To celebrate National Gone Fishing Day, a recreational fishing licence will not be required to go fishing in Victoria on October 8. Visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/hookedonbellarine for VicFishKids clinic bookings or more information.
