NSW DPI or as we used to know them, NSW Fisheries, have been doing some good things of late especially in and around our area, following is just a couple that I thought would be of interest to the readers of this column.
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DPI Narrandera Fisheries Centre hatchery staff have been busy stocking native fish into freshwater dams and lakes throughout summer.
Almost 250,000 Murray cod were stocked during early summer into dams including Copeton Dam near Inverell (20,000), Burrendong Dam near Wellington (63,000), Wyangala Dam near Cowra (25,000), Burrinjuck Dam near Yass (30,000) and Blowering Dam near Tumut (40,000).
To date, 200,000 golden perch have been stocked into dams including Ben Chifley Dam near Bathurst (10,000), Blowering Dam near Tumut (76,000), Googong Dam near Queanbeyan (15,000), Glenbawn Dam near Scone (60,000) and Glennies Creek Dam near Singleton (25,000).
Additional golden perch and silver perch are currently being grown at the hatchery and will be stocked throughout the State in the coming months.
Several dams in northern NSW including Pindari Dam, Split Rock Dam, Keepit Dam and Chaffey Dam have not been stocked due to low water levels.
However, many other dams and lakes are currently experiencing ideal conditions for the survival and growth of native fish fry and fingerlings and recent stockings will provide enjoyment for recreational fishers in the coming years.
Fast facts
- Fish: Cod
- Size: Will reach at least 60cm and 3 to 4kg in small streams to 90 to 100cm and 15 to 20kg in larger waterways. Occasionally recorded from 120 to 130cm and 35 to 45kg.
- The largest Murray cod ever officially recorded was 183cm, 113kg (6ft, 250lbs).
- Fish: Golden perch (yellowbelly)
- Size: Commonly less than 5kg, up to 75cm and 23kg