Keen anglers have an opportunity to reel in up to $100,000 when the ever-popular Let’s Fish Lake Mac returns this weekend.
Four healthy adults – a flathead, tailor, bream and whiting – were released during the week under the watchful eye of organiser Michael Guest at popular fishing spots across the lake.
Tagged with a unique label, the fish will each be worth $25,000 if landed by registered participants taking part in the two-day catch and release challenge.
The cash bounty adds to more than $34,000 worth of prizes on offer in the junior and open categories.
“The four tagged fish have now been released, allowing them time to settle back into a normal feeding routine, ready for a lucky competitor to catch,” he said.
“We’re set for two days of cracking spring weather with light winds and no rain in sight.
“The lake is going to be busy with keen fishos getting their gear ready to chase the target species.”
Let’s Fish Lake Mac requires anglers to photograph fish on a measuring mat supplied to all participants before being released back into the lake.
They must be caught either in the lake or from shore along the city’s coast.
Lake Macquarie City mayor Adam Shultz said it was a fun, sustainable way to get outdoors and enjoy the region’s spectacular lake and beaches.
“The lake is central to so much that we do here,” he explained.
“It’s why so many families are moving to Lake Mac… and why hundreds of thousands more visit every year.
“Almost every one of us who has grown up here has a core memory of catching their first fish in Lake Macquarie.
“So, I’m sure many more of those memories will be made this weekend.”
Let’s Fish encourages people to venture outdoors and enjoy the lake, while promoting low-impact fishing that maintains healthy fish populations.
This year’s contest also focuses on providing fishing options for people of all abilities.
All-inclusive fishing will be on offer at Lake Macquarie’s first fully-accessible platform at Bolton Point, with wheelchair access and disability parking onsite.
Day Trippin Charters is offering 90-minute fishing trips from 9am-3pm over the weekend for NDIS participants, too, with each trip accommodating up to four people including a parent or carer for each person.
Meanwhile, Guest urged anyone catching a $25,000 tagged fish to ensure they don’t remove the tag from their catch.
“You must keep the fish alive and in good condition,” he said.
“Call the event hotline number provided when you register.”
Entry to this year’s Let’s Fish is $30.
They can be caught any time on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November.
Go to letsfishlakemac.com.au for more information.
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- What’s On in Newcastle
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- Lookout! New festival brings Aussie rock royalty to Lake Mac
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