Fishing day serves up carp feast

European Carp was the catch of the day at Sunday’s Carp Fishing Day in Warwick.
More than 300 people turned out for the fishing competition as part of the Love my River celebrations held by Condamine Alliance and the Condamine Headwaters Landcare Group.
The day’s efforts netted 60 pest fish ,including European Carp and Goldfish. The heaviest fish weighed in at 3.2 kilograms and prizes were awarded to everyone who caught a pest fish.
The day was supported by the Warwick District Recreational Fish Stocking Association, Fisheries Queensland and the Boating and Fisheries Patrol.
Carp and Goldfish are just two of the many pest fish species found in Australian waterways.
Pest fish are predators and compete with native fish for food and space. They also spread disease and damage delicate habitat.
The Condamine Alliance River Rescue Program works to protect native fish species by raising awareness amongst the community and finding practical ways to eliminate pest fish from the waterways.
Native fish populations have steadily declined in the Murray Darling system since European settlement. Researchers estimate their numbers have decreased by more than 90 per cent during this time.
Condamine Alliance River Rescue manager Kevin Graham said the first carp fishing day was a great success.
“This is the first time we have held a fishing day in Warwick and we are very pleased with the enthusiastic response from the community,” he said.
“People came from all over the district and it was great to see so many families having fun fishing along the river bank.
“We’ve had lots of requests for the day to be held again next year.”
More activities will be held during Native Fish Awareness Week from November 5-12. For more details, email Greg Ringwood at greg.ringwood@deedi.qld.gov.au