The Coonabarabran Fishing Club is actively engaged in restocking the Castlereagh River with native fish to promote their thriving population.

Recently, the Fishing Club released 7000 Golden Perch fingerlings, or ‘Yellow Bellys’ into the river.

The fish were supplied by Narrabri Fish Farm with the hope they will support the ecosystem and grow into sizeable fish for recreational fishing.

For the last 12 years, the Fishing Club, in conjunction with NSW Fisheries, has raised money to add more native fish into the local river.

Through the Native Restocking program, NSW Fisheries provides $2 to the club for each dollar raised.

The restocking program aims to protect and enhance aquaculture ventures and encourage community involvement within local water sources.

Grant Wood, secretary of the Coonabarabran Fishing Club, expressed enthusiasm for the release of the fingerlings to the Castlereagh River.

“They breed naturally and the increase in numbers will make it better for fishing and the habitat in general,” Mr Wood said.

“They eat pest species and they grow up to be decent sized fish.

“The Fishing Club is mostly about restocking the river. It’s good for environment, good for community – we have a beautiful river and we love to see people using it.

“Fishing is more enjoyable when you have fish to catch!”

Fishing Club members also do their best to protect native fish from invasive, pest species such as carp.

Mr Wood said carp “breed like rabbits” and take over the environment, making it difficult for native fish to breed.

In order to combat this, the Fishing Club hosts a biannual Carp Muster.

The competition involves a weekend of catching carp and is inclusive of all ages and skill levels.

Prizes are up for grabs for a range of categories, however, the major prize is for the person who measures closest to the mystery size, which is drawn on the day.

“That way, all you have to do is catch a fish and anyone could win the prize, including kids,” Mr Wood said.

The event is held over a weekend, with the weigh-in and a sausage sizzle held on the Sunday afternoon, at the Coonabarabran Golf Club.

Mr Wood said around 150 people participate each time and it is a popular day out for those keen on fishing.

Coonabarabran’s first Carp Muster was held 12 years ago and the 2024 event will be held on 27-28 April.

PHOTO: Coonabarabran Fishing Club released 7000 Golden Perch fingerlings into the Castlereagh River last month.