Wimmera River 2024 Fish Comeback
2024 Native Fish Report Card: Wimmera River
Download: Native Fish Report Card- Wimmera River 2024 PDF 8.0MB DOCX 8.0MB
Overview
The eighth round of fish surveys for an angler report card were undertaken in January 2024.
Austral Research and Consulting, at eight sites along the Wimmera River, from upstream of Horsham (Longerenong) to Jeparit, used electrofishing to record catches. While the focus was on angling species of interest (Golden Perch and Freshwater Catfish), there were observations of Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Flathead Gudgeon, Common Galaxias and Australian Smelt, as well as exotic Carp, Goldfish and Redfin.
Key Findings
- Target Species: The survey focused on two key species: Golden Perch (Macquaria ambigua) and Freshwater Catfish (Tandanus tandanus). Both species are considered translocated populations in the Wimmera River.
- Electrofishing Sites: Eight sites were surveyed using electrofishing methods.
- Fish Community: The survey recorded a variety of fish species, including large-bodied natives like Murray Cod and Silver Perch, small-bodied natives such as Australian Smelt and Flatheaded Gudgeon, and several exotic species.
Species Highlights
– Golden Perch (Macquaria ambigua)
- Population Structure: Multiple size classes were present, indicating a healthy population structure.
- Stocking Efforts: Significant stocking efforts have been made, with over 123,000 Golden Perch stocked in 2024 alone.
- Abundance: The highest abundance of Golden Perch was recorded in 2024, reflecting successful stocking and management efforts.
– Freshwater Catfish (Tandanus tandanus)
- Population Structure: Although fewer in number, Freshwater Catfish showed a mix of recruits, juveniles, and adults.
- Challenges: Low abundances make it difficult to determine key health indicators for this species.
Non-Target Species
- Large-Bodied Natives: Murray Cod and Silver Perch were recorded, with Silver Perch being stocked annually since 1997.
- Small-Bodied Natives: Australian Smelt and Flatheaded Gudgeon were consistently recorded, while Carp Gudgeon and Common Galaxias were less frequently detected.
- Exotic Species: Common Carp, Goldfish, and Redfin were prevalent across all survey sites.
Environmental and Management Context
- Low Flow Conditions: Persistent low flow conditions were noted across all eight sampling years.
- Rehabilitation Efforts: Numerous actions have been undertaken to improve the river’s health, including habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and fish stocking.
- Strategic Management: The 2022 Wimmera Native Fish Management Plan guides ongoing efforts to enhance native fish populations and overall river health.
Conclusion
The 2024 Native Fish Report Card survey underscores the importance of continued management and rehabilitation efforts to support the diverse fish community in the Wimmera River. With ongoing collaboration and strategic actions, the vision of abundant and diverse native fish populations in the Wimmera River catchment can be realized.
