Fishing fiends will be in for a treat with Melbourne winning the rights to host the 10th World Recreational Fishing Conference, which will include the complementary Ultimate Fishing Expo, in February.
Victorian Fisheries Authority chief executive officer Travis Dowling said the expo on February 18 and 19 would be a weekend extravaganza of expert speakers and fishing celebrities, activities for the entire family to enjoy, and all the latest in fishing gear, boats and equipment.
“Victoria boasts the best recreational fishing in Australia with tuna and kingfish offshore, snapper, whiting and calamari in our bays, and wonderful inland fisheries home to iconic Murray cod and wild trout,” Mr Dowling said.
“The free expo brings under one roof our popular Murray cod and trout conferences alongside the fishing tackle and boating industry for a one-stop-shop experience for all ages.
“Boats will be on display, the tackle trade will have stands, and members of the Women in Recreational Fishing network will provide fly fishing casting lessons.”
There will also be presentations from experts including:
- Paul and Jed Worsteling on a lifetime of family fishing;
- David Kramer on Victoria’s world-class fishing opportunities;
- Gawaine Blake on bay and inlet fishing revival;
- Lubin Pfeiffer and Terry George on trout fisheries; and
- Colby Lesko and Kate Norman on catching big Murray cod, including at Lake Eildon.
Mr Dowling said the expo would also feature international speakers such as Sascha and Andy Danylchuk and April Vokey, who would be presenting at the World Recreational Fishing Conference the following week from February 20 to 22.
“The illustrious WRFC is held every three years ... we’re thrilled Victoria is hosting this prestigious event because it’s a reflection of our wonderful fisheries, passionate fishing community and reputation for sustainable fisheries management,” he said.
For more information, visit: www.vfa.vic.gov.au/ultimatefishingexpo or www.wrfc10.com