Historic Catfish release

These native Catfish have been virtually extinct in our river systems for a number of years.

Deniliquin-based ecologist Dr John Conallin said the collaborative project aims to revive the population density of this species back to its original numbers.

It will be the first of many releases in the Riverina area, with plans for a Wakool release being coordinated next.

A free community barbecue will be available during the release, with people encouraged to bring their children.

“This is a very important event,” Dr Conallin said.

“There is a whole generation that hasn’t been able to see these Catfish in our river systems.”

The Catfish release project is a joint initiative of the Recreational Fishing Trust, Deniliquin Kolety Lagoons Landcare Group, Joint Indigenous Group, NSW DPI Fisheries, Murray Local Land Services, Edward Wakool Anglers Association and the Edward Kolety Fishing Challenge.

Representatives of these groups hope the program will lead to recreational fishing opportunities, but Dr Conallin said it cannot be achieved overnight.

“This is a long term plan,” he said.

“The Catfish population may take a minimum of a decade to reach the numbers we’re hoping for.”

Dr Conallin said until numbers do expand to a desired level, recreational fishing of the eel tailed Catfish will not be allowed.

If anyone accidentally snags one, they are to contact the Deniliquin Kolety Lagoons Landcare Group on 0438 719 628 as soon as possible.

The Catfish being released tomorrow are either adult or sub-adult.

Hundreds more are being prepared for later releases.

The release has been supported by the proceeds from the inaugural Edward River Fishing Challenge, held in February this year.

Run by a community committee, its aim is to invest all earnings into the health of the river system.

It will be the second release stemming from the fishing event, after 12,000 golden perch fingerlings were released into the Edward River at McLean Beach in April.