New trout season kicks off
Tuesday, 3 October 2023
The State’s annual trout fishing season commenced on September 30, with rivers and streams in prime condition following the four-month fishing closure. Great fishing across the NSW trout fishery is expected this season.
The annual closure allows trout to breed during the spawning season, to allow good recruitment and ensure we maintain our fishing assets for future seasons.
Consistent rainfall over the past few years has allowed for good natural recruitment, which bodes well for this open season.
NSW boasts an array of popular trout fishing locations, including a range of productive streams in the New England area, the iconic Thredbo and Eucumbene rivers in the Snowy Mountains, and the Fish River near Bathurst in the Central West.
It is important that all anglers check they have a current and valid NSW Recreational Fishing Licence. It’s also a good idea that anglers take the opportunity to remind themselves about the fishing rules, to ensure our trout fishery remains viable into the future.
The NSW trout fishery is carefully managed to ensure sustainability while delivering socio-economic benefits.
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:
“Trout are an incredibly popular freshwater sportfish in our general trout streams, artificial fly and lure streams, and create fantastic opportunities for fishers.
“DPI’s Gaden and Dutton trout hatcheries have completed their breeding programs for the season, and we are working with local clubs and acclimatisation societies to organise stocking of trout fry and fingerlings.
“The wet conditions over the past few years have given a great boost to trout fishing and we look set for yet another bumper season this year, right across the State.”
The 2023-24 trout season is open through to Tuesday, 11 June 2024. A summary of fishing rules and regulations is available via the FishSmart App or by accessing the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide available at NSW DPI offices, fishing fee agents or online.
Anyone with information about illegal fishing or suspected illegal fishing should contact the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or report illegal activity online via the link.
