It’s Lake Mac’s version of Willy Wonka’s golden ticket: a $25,000 flathead lurking in the lake’s depths, just waiting to be caught.

The piscatorial prize will be one of four tagged fish each worth $25,000 if hauled in and released during this year’s event weekend on 23 and 24 November.

One healthy tagged specimen from each of the competition’s target species – flathead, bream, tailor and whiting – is set to be released into the lake shortly before the tournament begins, with participants challenged to catch one and claim its $25,000 bounty.

Organiser Michael Guest said tackle prize packs worth more than $34,000 were on offer as usual this year.

However, the tagged fish will add even more incentive to sign up and wet a line.

“We’ve seen how this kind of fish lottery has helped attract anglers to competitions in other parts of Australia, but this is the first time it has been offered locally,” he said.

“It’s a really fun way to encourage people to get involved.

“And, there’s a substantial reward on offer for anyone lucky enough to hook one of the four tagged fish.”

Prizes are available across junior and open categories for the largest specimen of each of the four target species caught during the weekend, along with “mystery length” rewards and other packs for simply entering.

Fish are photographed on a measuring mat supplied to all participants, before being released back into the lake.

Lake Macquarie City Council coordinator cultural engagement, marketing and tourism Marsha Rodrom said local businesses were set to reel in the benefits, too.

“Past Let’s Fish Lake Mac weekends have seen hundreds of anglers descend on the lake and our beaches in search of the target species,” she explained.

“Many are from outside the area, and we consistently see a significant boost in demand for accommodation and from other hospitality venues around the lake as a result.

“This event also encourages people to get outdoors and enjoy one of Australia’s most popular pastimes.”

Entry to this year’s contest is $30.

Go to letsfishlakemac.com.au for more information and online registrations. 

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