The Victorian Broadbill Swordfish Championship recently wrapped up in the waters of Lakes Entrance as anglers hunted the catch of a lifetime.
It is the second time the event has operated out of Lakes Entrance with Gippsland Lakes Angling Game and Sports Fishing Club and the Victorian Game Fishing Club coordinating the event.
Gippsland Lakes Angling Game and Sports Fishing Club president, Tony Kemna, was happy with the growth of the event and the wonderful weather.
“The competition went really well. There were lots of fish caught,” he said.
“The weather has been really good. We got eight days of fishing in during the month. Last year we only got six days. Local sponsors got on board and supported the championship, which is the biggest of its kind in Australia.
“Competition numbers increased from 30 to 53 entries this year. We want the competition to keep getting bigger every year. If entries can increase every year that is what we are all about.
“We want to do it again next year.
“The water police were thrilled. Everyone’s gear was above board and no one was issued with an infringement notice.
“Everyone got in and out safely. Safety is a high priority in the event.”
Anglers boosted the local economy while chasing a variety of billfish (marlin and swordfish), game fish (albacore, mahi mahi, southern bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, yellowtail kingfish) and sharks (blue, hammerhead, mako, porbeagle, thresher, tiger, whaler).
“Some fish were caught and then released, while others were tagged so they could be tracked,” Tony said.
“Team Knot Shore won the event with some pretty big swordfish.
“Mainly swordfish were caught. There were a couple of mako sharks. Some went deep dropping and caught blue trevally, which are great to eat.
“Everyone around town enjoyed having the competitors here. The boats are using 400 to 500 litres of fuel every day so they come into town and fuel up, grab a bite and then stay somewhere.”
