In this episode, Siwan chats with Andrew McGovern, an avid angler and one of Australia’s most recognised fishing journalist. Andrew has been fishing in the Canberra and Snowy Mountains regions for over 40 years and has a special connection to the Murrumbidgee River, where he grew up. Siwan and Andrew discuss the role anglers play in caring for and protecting native fish, as well as the waterways they live in. Andrew is particularly passionate about sustainable catch-and-release fishing practices, and how we can minimise harm and maximise enjoyment of being out on the river and catching our wonderful fish.
In this episode, Siwan chats with Andrew McGovern, an avid angler and fishing journalist. Andrew has been fishing the Canberra and Snowy Mountains regions for over 40 years and has a special connection to the Murrumbidgee River, where he grew up. Andrew has written over 350 articles on fishing and is one of Australia’s most recognised fishing journalists. Siwan and Andrew discuss the role anglers can play in caring for and protecting native fish, as well as the waterways they live in. Andrew is particularly passionate about sustainable catch-and-release fishing practices, and how we can minimise harm and maximise enjoyment of being out on the river and catching our wonderful native fish.
Successful catch and release of the mighty Murray cod
With the opening of the Murray cod season approaching, and the growing number of anglers, both new and old, looking to chase this iconic species, the catch rates and pressure on these fish continues to increase. Commendably, most anglers now release their Murray cod to live, breed, and prosper. Through the flood of social media posts, with anglers holding beautiful big cod for a photo, as well as short release video clips, it is obvious that however well-intentioned these fishers are, many folks could brush-up on handling techniques to ensure that not only does the cod swim away, but that it has the best chance at a long and healthy life. Check out these correct handling methods to reduce stress on the fish, avoid damage or harm to vital organs, and most importantly facilitate a healthy release.
Learn about the upper Murrumbidgee Recovery Reach
The Upper Murrumbidgee Recovery Reach (UMRR) has been established to carrying out on-ground actions to recover native fish in the upper Murrumbidgee River, and invest in capacity building and awareness raising activities for key stakeholders relationships in the upper Murrumbidgee region.