- Iconic jungle perch will be released into two South-East Queensland waterbodies
- Anglers nominated jungle perch as the species they most wanted to see added to Queensland's Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS)
- DAF researchers will monitor the released fish to determine if they should be stocked in more impoundments
Freshwater anglers in South-East Queensland are getting ready to rumble thanks to a joint fish-stocking research project by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and City of Moreton Bay.
Between 5,000 and 10,000 iconic jungle perch fingerlings will be released into Lake Kurwongbah and Enoggera Reservoir as part of a three-year trial to boost recreational fishing opportunities and tourism.
The native Queensland species, which occurs from Cape York right down to Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast, is prized by anglers for its hard-fighting and elusive nature, but has never been approved as an impoundment species in Australia
Recreational anglers nominated jungle perch, which can grow up to 50 centimetres long and weigh up to 3.5 kilograms, as the species they most wanted added to Queensland's Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS).
The trial is the result of more than a decade of DAF research, which included the world's first successful captive breeding program at DAF's Bribie Island Research Centre.
Fisheries researchers will monitor the growth rate, angler catch rates, and impact, if any, of jungle perch on other species in the waterways.
Jungle perch travel to the sea to breed, and dams and weirs have contributed to their decline in southern Queensland.
If the trial is a success, jungle perch will be added to the permitted species list for stocking impoundments along the east coast of Queensland and will likely be introduced to other dams, helping to restore the species' place in the southern Queensland landscape for future generations.
As stated by Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, the Honourable Mark Furner:
"What better species to stock our beautiful Queensland waterways with than the iconic jungle perch.
"Within Australia, this fish is only found in Queensland and will be a real drawcard for interstate and overseas anglers looking to tick the species off their bucket list.
"The added bonus of stocking impoundments with this native Queensland fish is that any escapees are going to end up boosting numbers in our creeks and rivers. It's win-win."
As stated by City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery:
"City of Moreton Bay is spoilt for choice with access to both marine and freshwater fishing right on our doorstep.
"Jungle perch is a highly sought-after freshwater fishing experience and stocking it in our waterways will boost recreational fishing and enhance tourism, making City of Moreton Bay an even more attractive fishing destination.
"City of Moreton Bay already sees 4.6 million visitors annually, contributing over $2 billion to our economy and we're excited by the new tourism experiences that the jungle perch will help launch.
"Our stunning destinations and fishing experiences make us an irresistible destination for fishing enthusiasts and tourists alike; come and visit City of Moreton Bay."
As stated by Pine Rivers Fish Management Association president Dean Rosolen:
"The Pine Rivers Fish Management Association (PRFMA) works closely with DAF, City of Moreton Bay and Seqwater to stock Lake Kurwongbah and Lake Samsonvale.
"Funding from DAF's SIPS program and recreational grants from City of Moreton Bay have enabled the PRFMA to create exciting fisheries in these lakes, bringing economic and social benefits to the region.
"Expanding the range of species stocked with the addition of jungle perch will further enhance the attraction of these fisheries.
"The PRFMA fully supports this initiative and looks forward to working with the relevant parties on this exciting project."
As stated by Brisbane Valley Anglers Fishstocking Association spokesperson Charlie Ladd:
"Brisbane Valley Anglers Fishstocking Association (BVAFA) has been stocking Enoggera Dam with Australian bass and the endangered Mary River cod since 2018," Mr Ladd said.
"Stocking the dam with jungle perch will enhance fishing opportunities for anglers and provide the chance to catch another iconic species within a 20-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD."
