Come and hear about all things Murray cod at Victoria's fourth annual Murray Codference on Sunday 8 December in Shepparton, boasting an expanded schedule of events including a free family fun day on Saturday 7.
Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said the Codference would help freshwater diehards learn all about our Murray cod fisheries and how they're tracking, plus tips and tactics to improve their own fishing success from Victoria's best cod-hunters.
"The Codference is a free event funded by the State Government's $35 million Target One Million plan to get more people fishing, more often, in more places," Mr Dowling said.
"It's a great opportunity for recreational fishers to get together, share some yarns and hear from experts about our terrific Murray cod and golden perch fisheries that are going from strength to strength thanks to record native fish stocking and big efforts to improve fish habitat in rivers.
"The keynote speaker this year is Rob Paxevanos who will showcase his new Total Natives 2 DVD, including a glimpse into his five-day fishing odyssey at Lake Eildon recently.
"To help fishers improve their own fishing success John Cahill is back to show off new-age baits for big Murray cod.
"Dr Brett Ingram will run through the native fish report cards which rank Victorian fisheries so you know the best spots to go cast a lure or kick-back with a bardi grub.
"Inland Fisheries experts Anthony Forster and Danny Simpson will present on the exciting new native fish hatchery at Shepparton and how we're creating urban fisheries for natives close to home.
"Graeme Dear will reveal a few secrets on catching native Australian bass in Gippsland and Anthony McGrath will explain how we're delivering better access to Victoria's river frontages.
"Codference attendees will receive a free show bag that includes a proceedings document summarising all the presentations, a Murray cod length/weight ruler and a Zerek Live Swimbait lure."
Mr Dowling encouraged families to make a weekend of it and get along to the Codstival on Saturday 7 December too. There'll be free fishing tuition from 10am-4pm at Victoria Lake, casting competition and photobooth with Santa.
The Codference is at the Eastbank Conference Centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton, from 9am until 4pm. Tea, coffee and lunch will be provided. More than 300 people are expected to register so get in quick to reserve a free seat - www.vfa.vic.gov.au/codference
