From the Department of Primary Industries

Monday August 25, 2008

GOLDEN PERCH STOCKING IMPROVING THE KERANG LAKES

Fisheries Victoria surveys have revealed that stocking of golden perch is boosting native fish populations and angling opportunities in several of the Kerang Lakes.

Fisheries Victoria Executive Director Dr Peter Appleford said preliminary results suggested over 45 per cent of golden perch captured in the surveys were stocked fish, although the contribution varied from lake to lake.

“From the 83 golden perch captured in total during June and July, 38 had marked otoliths (fish ear bones), indicating they were stocked fish,” Dr Appleford said.

“The biggest contribution was in Kow Swamp where 100 per cent of captured golden perch were stocked fish.

“In Lake Charm the contribution was 83 per cent while in Kangaroo Lake it was 41 per cent.

“The lowest contribution was recorded in the first of the Reedy Lakes where 23 per cent of
golden perch were stocked fish.”

Dr Appleford said the biggest of the 83 golden perch measured 52 cm, weighed over 3 kg and was caught in Lake Charm.

“Anglers looking for the best catch, should turn their attention to Kangaroo Lake which yielded the most golden perch overall and the heaviest average perch of more than 1 kg,” he said.

The Fisheries Victoria surveys are part of a five year investigation into the Kerang Lakes
recreational fisheries.

Anglers are encouraged to assist with the study by reporting the capture of any tagged native fish from the Kerang Lakes to Fisheries Victoria scientists on (03) 5774 2208.

The study is funded through the Victorian Recreational Fishing Grants Program, which invests fishing licence fees to improve fishing opportunities, with contributions from Fisheries Victoria.

This 52cm golden perch weighed over 3 kg and was captured in Lake Charm. It was the largest of the 83 golden perch caught in the Kerang Lakes fisheries surveys.