While the state's annual trout fishing season starts this Saturday, October 2 anglers wanting to drop a line in the Cowra side of Wyangala Dam will have to wait a little longer.
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The western side of the is currently closed as part of the Cowra Local Government Area COVID enforced lockdown.
"Due to the Cowra lockdown, Wyangala Waters is temporarily closed including Main Park, Markham's, Quart Pot, Gerties and Oaky Creek [Backwaters Area]," Reflections Holiday Park announced this week.
It's a different story for anglers living on the Grabine side of the dam with Reflections keeping that area open as it is located in the Upper Lachlan Shire Local Government area.
"Access is strictly via Grabine side of Wyangala Dam," Reflections said.
Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall is encouraging anglers, where COVID restrictions allow, to get out on Saturday.
"As the weather warms up, we expect great fishing for local anglers as the annual trout season opens this Saturday," Mr Marshall said.
"Rain over the key trout spawning period in late autumn and early winter has hopefully resulted in good natural recruitment, which also bodes well for the next few seasons.
"These are an incredibly popular freshwater sportfish in our general trout streams and artificial lure and fly streams, and create fantastic opportunities for fishers."
Mr Marshall said there were many popular trout fishing locations across NSW, including a range of productive streams in the New England area, the Thredbo and Eucumbene Rivers in the Snowy Mountains, and the Fish River near Bathurst.
"Both the Gaden and Dutton Trout hatcheries have completed their breeding programs and NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is working with local clubs and societies to organise stocking of trout fry and fingerlings," Mr Marshall said.
Mr Marshall said it was vital anglers were aware of the rules associated with recreational fishing, particularly during times of COVID.
"It is important all anglers check they have a current and valid NSW Recreational Fishing Licence, and it's also a good idea to take the opportunity to remind yourself about the rules to ensure sustainable resources into the future," Mr Marshall said.
For more information on fishing during COVID stay-at-home orders, visit the Marine Area Command - NSW Police Force page or www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/home/covid-19.
A summary of the rules and regulations is available in the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide available at NSW DPI offices or fishing fee agents.
Anyone with information about illegal fishing or suspected illegal fishing should contact the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or report illegal activity online.
