100,000 golden perch going into the lake

The National Capital Authority brings word they’re releasing a large number of baby golden perch into Lake Burley Griffin:

“Golden Perch were selected as they are native to local rivers, adapt well to our lakes, and are an excellent angling species.

“These 30-40mm fingerlings will reach the legal size limit of 30cm in 2-3 years, and have the potential to grow to over 60cm long, and weigh 5-10 kg,” said Mr Beutel.

The NCA stocks Lake Burley Griffin to improve the biodiversity of the lake, and provide a range of fishing opportunities for recreational anglers.

“Stocking Lake Burley Griffin with native predators, such as the Golden Perch, can play and important roll in protecting threatened species, and may assist in controlling pests such as European Carp and Redfin.

“The stocking of Golden Perch into Lake Burley Griffin will improve the diversty of the fish population in the lake which can’t rely on natural spawning of these species,” said Mr Beutel.

The $20,000 worth of fish come from Wagga Wagga’s Uarah Fish Hatchery.