Andrew Jefferies with one of the Murray cod heading into the Kolety.
Deniliquin’s Edward/Kolety Fishing Challenge committee members and sponsors have released more large ex-brood stock Murray cod in to the Edward River.
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Funded via the challenge’s Adopt-a-Cod program, the aim is to replenish local waterways with Murray cod and other species of fish.
Last year, challenge organisers and sponsors released 21 adult Murray cod into the Edward River at Deniliquin as part of the Adopt-a-Cod program.
This year, a larger number were released at various locations. Some were released at Willoughby’s Beach, where sponsors were treated to a barbecue.
“We released 31 Murray cod with a total weight of 102kg, varying in length from 45cm to 60cm,” challenge co-ordinator Andrew Jefferies said.
“They average 3.3kg each and are mature breeding males and females.
“Approximately 50 sponsors and general interested public came down.
“The Rotary Club of Deniliquin cooked a barbecue for us and there were refreshments.
“Sponsors could name their fish, measure and release them from the boats provided, under a secret log in the river anywhere.
“Names such as Barry, Coco, Rotarian and Zoopa-dooper were some of them.”
The cod release adds to other native fish released coordinated by the organisers of the challenge.
This year alone, the group released more than 30,000 Silver Perch and 5000 eel tailed catfish.
With 10 more cod released compared to last year, the program's growth is evident.
This success signals a promising future for local fish populations and recreational fishing opportunities.
The newly released fish are expected to thrive, setting the stage for an exciting Edward/Kolety Fishing Challenge scheduled for February 7-9 next year.
An example of one of the cod released into the river on Saturday.
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