The Minns Labor Government’s highly successful primary school fishing education program which has introduced more than 70,000 students to the joys of fishing, is set to expand into NSW high schools from today.
The Get Hooked fishing primary schools’ program was launched in 2008 under the Iemma Labor Government.
Since then, more than 750 primary schools in NSW have taken part in program, learning from education officers and Fishcare volunteers about responsible fishing and environmental awareness.
The program integrates practical fishing skills with environmental education through subjects like Biology, Environmental Science, and Physical Education, helping students learn and take care of our water ways and resources.
The new high school program includes curriculum-aligned units – Fishing in NSW; Understanding Fish Habitat; Conserving Fish Habitat with lesson plans, activities and assessments tailored to year 7 to 10 students.
This expanded program also delivers additional benefits to the community by educating students on sustainable fishing practices, including habitat conservation and biosecurity, to protect the environment for the future.
Additionally, the program also promotes the health and social benefits of recreational fishing to teenagers and encourages inclusive participation across ages and genders.
The program is proudly supported with funding from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust.
High schools can get involved by registering for the free program and gain access to four online learning units designed to support sustainable fishing education.