The classic was held last weekend, with 466 anglers from across the region and wider area taking part. 

While that number was slightly down, the committee is already forging ahead and has claimed the date for next year’s classic, which will be held from March 9 to 11. 

Each year the event is held to ensure the Murrumbidgee River remains stocked, with 7000 Murray Cod and 15,000 Golden Perch fingerlings released into the system on Saturday. 

Committee president Jodie Ryan said the weekend went as smoothly as planned.

“I can’t really remember the last time it did run so well … we’ve had some really good feedback,” she said. 

“Unfortunately we did clash with a few things like the MS Mega Swim and there were a couple of weddings, but there’s not much you can do about it.

“We have claimed the date already for next year … it will be held when there is a long weekend in Victoria so we’ll again be tapping into that market to get people down here.”

One of the highlights of the weekend was when an angler, known as “LJ” landed himself a 93 centimetre cod caught on a yabbie. While it wasn’t a “legal” catch as part of the competition, it was an impressive feat. 

“The other thing is what the event does for the town,” Mrs Ryan said. “It’s a huge boost for the economy every year for sure.”

Results

Biggest bag of carp

Sub-junior boy: Kix Killen, junior girl Mikayla Newman, junior boy Tom Fitzgerald, senior female Carol Kent, senior male Fred Kent. 

Ray Heath “Digger” memorial shield for the best represented club: Tarcoola. 

Longest Golden Perch: Sub-junior girl Rosealee Reay, junior girl Sarah Manning, junior boy Tye Clancy, senior female Pam Tiffen, senior male Troy Griffiths.

Longest Murray Cod: Sub-junior boy Deklan Boots, junior boy Luca Deaton, senior female Pam Tiffen, senior male Len Eason.

Best team prize: Tarcoola 1. 

Stan Element overall champion: Ben Goudie.

Total fish caught

Carp: 826

Cod: 45

Yellowbelly: 21