Photo: Geoff Vivian.
Esperance Lions hosted 125 Cascades, Salmon Gums and Condingup primary school children for fishing clinics last week at Bandy Creek boat harbour.
Each child spent about two hours on a Thursday or Friday learning to bait a hook, caste a line from a fishing rod, and in many cases reel a fish in.
All fish were then released.
Organiser Jim Hamilton said the kids enjoyed themselves and it was a really good two days.
“The younger ones we had there first and even the ones that never caught a fish were enthusiastic for those who did catch a fish,” he said.
“The older group, they were more independent. They knew what they were doing.
“We were happy that the kids enjoyed themselves and everything was done as good as we could and safely.”
Mr Hamilton said Fisheries education officer Sara Monaghan travelled from Albany to give a lesson to each group about the various marine habitats and the fish that lived in them.
“She explained to the kids how deep they went, how far they went in their lifespan and how they fed,” he said.
Ms Monaghan said the activity supported students to learn about the importance of following fishing rules and how it contributed to sustainable fish stocks.
“We are a statewide education team and we are passionate about promoting good stewardship of our marine resources,” she said.
“If anyone is looking for quality marine education resources please visit marinewaters.fish.wa.gov.au .”
Earlier in the month the Esperance Lions won an international award from their organisation for the program.
