THIS year’s Bidgee Classic is shaping up to be one of the best yet, according to organisers.
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Plans are in motion for the event, which will be held on March 6, 7 and 8 at Gogeldrie Weir.
As well as the fishing aspect, anglers can expect a family-friendly atmosphere, with various activities to be held come nightfall on the Friday and Saturday night.
Bidgee Classic Committee president Jodie Ryan said there had been interest from near and far for this year’s event.
“There’s been a lot of inquiries from the Victoria area, which is good because we have been targeting down there as they’ve got a long weekend on the dates of the classic,” she said.
“For the first time in a couple of years we’ve got a naming rights sponsor, so that has really helped out too.
“That will give us a bit of a fresh look and re-branding, so it’s all quite positive.”
“Hopefully we’ll get lots of interest from here in Leeton shire and throughout the region.”
Last year 571 anglers threw in a line to take part in the classic, which was 74 more than the 2013 event at Gogeldrie Weir.
Over the weekend 672 carp were caught, 30 yellowbelly and 20 Murray cod.
Besides providing an outlet for a fishing competition, as well as bringing visitors to town, the Bidgee Classic Committee uses proceeds to restock the Murrumbidgee River.
“We’ve ordered 50,000 fingerlings to be released back into the river at this year’s event,” Mrs Ryan said.
“Obviously that’s one of the big aims of the classic – to restock the river.
“However, this year anglers should be aware that when catching Murray Cod anything over 75cm is an illegal fish.
“Hopefully that doesn’t deter anyone because it’s going to be a great weekend.”
Club members have been out and about during the week and over the weekend selling raffle tickets for its major prize, with residents encouraged to spend a dollar or two to win a boat and camping trailer package.
The committee is also searching for any spare hands over the weekend of the Bidgee Classic.
“We’ve got a core group, but we would love extra help over the weekend,” Mrs Ryan said. “If anyone can spare an hour or two just let us know in the lead up. That would be fantastic.”
The Bidgee Classic will be held on March 6, 7 and 8.
