The pool is part of $60,000 in prizes for the family-friendly event which will bring more than 700 people to the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.

Organiser Matt Cunneen is expecting hundreds for the event.

“The caravan park was taking bookings the night of last year for this year,” Mr Cunneen said.

“Around Wagga there is that much money spent on boating, camping and fishing, but there is nothing organised for it here.

"The Wagga Classic is a way to solve that."

The competition is held over 36km of the Murrumbidgee River, an area that starts upstream of Wagga, passes around the city and finishes downstream.

This year the Classic will feature well-known fishing writer and television presenter Steve “Starlo” Starling.

Starlo is Australia’s best-known and most prolific fishing writer, having published more than 20 books, written thousands of magazine articles and presented scores of DVDs.

In addition to the fishing and special guest, every adult registration will go in to the draw for a camper, trailer, boat and motor prize.

Children’s registrations (aged under 16) have their own entry prize – the chance to win $250 worth of lures.

Entry registration prior to Saturday, February 7, can be done at Tackle World (3871 Sturt Highway, Wagga).

Anglers can enter the Wagga Classic on the day at the event headquarters in the BIG4 holiday park on Hammond Avenue.

The competition was first held in 2009 and also raises money for local charities.

“The charities involved help throughout the year and without the help of those that step up throughout it couldn’t happen, as well as those who show up every year,” Mr Cunneen said.

What: Wagga Classic fishing competition

When: Saturday, February 7, (6am to 6pm) and Sunday, February 8 , (6am to noon).

Cost: Entry is $30 for an adult and $10 for under 16s.

All registered competitors must remain inside the competition zone when they are on water and the event follows all catch and release rules as per legislation.