North Australian FISH FINDER forums

Palmerston Game Fishing Club officials say they are thrilled at the response to last weekend's inaugural Kid's Fishing Clinic at Sanctuary Lakes.

Using funding obtained through AFANT, 100 children aged six to 14 were taken through a number of seminars by club members, on subjects ranging from how to tie knots and rigs, water and boat safety, and using lures plastics and bait.

Every child was presented with a free "Learn to Fish" video and an Anglers Works rod and reel jointly donated by Happy Micks, L Wilson and Co and the club.

Mike Chambers of Happy Micks said he was excited by the enthusiasm shown by both the kids and their parents.

"Recreational fishing is and always has been a popular and healthy pastime for young people, and we were thrilled to be able to contribute to the success of this event." he said.

"Not only did the kids learn new skills, but after the lessons were over and a sausage sizzle lunch, they were so excited to be able to fish in the lake, catching about 30 spangled perch. It was hard to tell who was the most excited; the kids or their parents.

"Following the success of this clinic, we are having discusssions with the club about holding a similar event next year.

"There were only 100 places available this time, and I estimate that we had between two and three hundred inquires. I think the club has demonstrated the worth of the project, and I look forward to being able to introduce a lot of children to recreational fishing in the future."