The popular Kerang Carp Catch is on again this year, with heaps to do for the whole family.

The North Central Catchment Management Authority’s (CMA) Native Fish Recovery Program is hosting the event on the Loddon River at the Kerang Regional Park at the end Wyndham Street on 28 April.

From 10am to 12.30 pm, there will be heaps of prizes based on the size and number of carp caught, as well as water bug activities, colouring tents, native fish displays, and a free lunch.

“There’s nothing better than sitting by the river and having a fish with your family, especially if you’re getting rid of carp,” North Central CMA Project Manager Peter Rose said.

“This event is a great opportunity to pull a few carp out of the Loddon, as well as learn about the damage they can do to our waterways and what we’re doing to give native fish the best possible chance.

“Boosting conditions for native fish is one weapon we have in the battle against carp. The Native Fish Recovery Plan and our water for environment programs provide the right habitat and flow regimes for our native fish to thrive.”

The Native Fish Recovery Plan provides an opportunity to increase native fish populations, recover threatened species and improve natural values, all integrated with vibrant and productive communities, irrigation, and agriculture.

It addresses three key factors responsible for the decline of native fish populations: loss of connectivity for fish movement and migration; alteration of natural flows regimes; and loss of habitat.

Kerang Catch a Carp is free, bait is provided, and you can register on the day.

This event is funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $248 million investment over four years (2020-2024) to improve the health of waterways and catchments across regional Victoria.