How new online fishing show explores bigger picture for Aussie anglers

A new weekly online fishing show has been launched by the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation (ARFF).

The first of the 25-minute programmes, called Tackle Box Talks, was live-streamed on the Foundation’s Facebook page last week. The series is part of the ARFF’s Tackle Box Project – a dedicated citizen science programme for Aussie anglers. Hosted by ARFF Manager, Adam Martin, the show is designed to meet the needs of Aussie fishers who are already engaging in or have a strong interest in issues such as citizen science, fish habitat, water quality, stewardship, fisheries and water management.

“Tackle Box Talks is absolutely a first of its kind to acknowledge and explore the bigger issues that affect fishers and our industry,” said Martin. “We plan to fill that void with targeted content and guest speakers who are specialists in their field. Listeners can have their questions answered during our Q&A session.

“As the peak body for Australia’s recreational fishers, we know the types of conversations happening right now in local fishing groups and on the water in every part of the country, so we have created a platform where people can go to be better informed and to drive the content in real time.” The first episode of Tackle Box Talks featured Frank Prokop, a pioneer of lure development and one of Australia’s most recognised fishing authors, presenters and self-described ‘agent of change’ in fisheries management.

Prokop explored the aspirations of recreational fishers and the economic value of improved fishing experiences, factors he believes should be main drivers behind fisheries management. “There is a long-held misconception by government that it is in the business of managing fish instead of people,” he said. “Australia’s fishers have an extraordinary and sophisticated level of understanding of the many facets and benefits our sport delivers.

“It is so important that we keep these bigger conversations going to empower, educate and recruit the next generation of anglers,” Prokop added.

Listeners can log on here.