Somerset Wivenhoe Fish Stocking Assn

Making a Better Fishery Future

LAKE SOMERSET FISHING MAP

Stocked Fish

SWFSA stock several native Australian fish species to improve recreational fishing.
These are:

Other Native Fish

In Lake Somerset there are naturally reproducing populations of:

Illegally Introduced Native Fish

Some years ago Barred Grunter were illegally released into Lake Somerset. While these are a native fish, they are not endemic to the Stanley River and are not a desiable recreational fish.

Fork-tailed catfish are present downstream of Lake Somerset. These are poorly regarded by most anglers. It is hoped these are not moved into Lake Somerset.

Sleepy Cod have recently been discovered in Lake Wivenhoe. While these are an Australian fish, they are not endemic to SE Qld waterways and should not be translocated.

Pest / Noxious Fish

Tilapia & Pearl Cichlids have been illegally released into Lake Somerset. If you catch one of these noxious pests it is illegal to return them to the water.
Please dispose of them in bins provided at boat ramps or bury them above the high water mark.

Fishing Permit

A Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIPS) is required for anyone 18 years and older fishing in or on Lake Somerset. You can get a SIPS permit HERE>>>

Fishing Guide

Australian Freshwater Fishing Charters
Phone 0408 658 592
Email matthew@australianfreshwaterfishing.com.au

Dam Operations

SEQWater controls Somerset Dam operations.

Lake Somerset is Queensland’s premier freshwater fishery.
The popularity is due to several reasons:

  • Large body of water that (mostly) has stable water levels
  • No boating restrictions
  • Great facilities for camping
  • close proximity to the major SE Qld population base
  • Multiple boat launching ramps
  • Pro-active fish stocking group

How You Can Help

There are several ways you can help us.

Become A Member

Attend meetings & fish releases

Fingerling Releases

Come along to fingerling releases.

Donate

Make a donation to SWFSA to help us put more fish back in the water.

Monitoring

Enter fishing data into our monitoring app HERE>>>

Fishing Permit

Make sure your Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIPS) is up to date. Everyone 18 years of age & older is required to have one when fishing on Lakes Somerset & Wivenhoe. Get a Fishing Permit HERE>>>

Destroy Pest Fish

If you catch any Tilapia, Carp or Pearl Cichlids in any waterway please humanely kill them and place in bins around the lakes or bury them above the high water mark. Do not return them to the water, even if they’re dead.

Cans For Cod

If You are doing the right thing by recycling your cans & bottles – why not go one better by nominating your cash to buying cod. Just quote our number C10393454

Every $5 buys 4 Cod to help restore the Cod in the Brisbane, Stanley & Bremer River catchments.

Brisbane River Cod Recovery Strategy

SWFSA stock Mary River Cod into several rivers & creeks in South East Queensland as part of the Brisbane River Cod Recovery Project.

Each year cod fingerlings are released into selected locations with a hope that this species can re-establish a self-sustaining population.
SWFSA acknowledge the Ipswich City Council & the Somerset Regional Council for their on-going support.

 

 

 

 

 

Benefits of Fish Restocking

SWFSA stock several native fish species under a permit from Queensland Fisheries. The benefits of native fish restocking include:

Improved recreational fishing opportunities

Pest / noxious fish control

Species Recovery - Mary River Cod

Improved water quality

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy fingerlings from SWFSA?

No. We do not breed fish. We purchase native fingerlings in bulk from commercial fish hatcheries for release into local waterways.

Where & When do SWFSA meet?

SWFSA generally meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the Fernvale Futures Centre. Check our social media for updates.

Cans For Cod

If You are doing the right thing by recycling your cans & bottles – why not go one better by nominating your cash to buying cod. Just quote our number C10393454

Every $5 buys 4 Cod to help restore the Cod in the Brisbane, Stanley & Bremer Rivers.