Commercial fisherman Luke Anedda continues the tradition of fishing in Corner Inlet, one of the last places in Victoria where commercial net fishing is allowed. With just 18 license holders left, they fought to protect their industry when the state government sought to phase it out in favor of recreational fishing. An unlikely alliance formed between commercial and recreational fishers, leading to the formalization of a voluntary code to limit overfishing. This successful lobbying effort underscored the political influence of recreational fishing in the state.
Anedda, a fourth-generation fisherman, supplies his catch to Melbourne’s wholesale seafood market and restaurants. Despite initial concerns that recreational fishers would impact their business, the Corner Inlet fishing industry managed to secure their place by working together with the Futurefish Foundation to make their code mandatory. This cooperation allowed them to present a united front to the state government and ensure the sustainability of fish stocks in the area.
Recreational fishing is immensely popular in Victoria, with over 232,000 licenses sold annually. The Victorian Fisheries Authority has fostered a relationship of trust and compromise between commercial and recreational fishers at Corner Inlet, leading to a peaceful coexistence. While no guarantees are made for the future of net fishing in the area, efforts are being made to ensure sustainable practices are upheld by both sectors.
The involvement of political figures like former premier Daniel Andrews and the influence of groups like the Futurefish Foundation highlight the importance of recreational fishing in shaping government policies. Angling has become a significant voting group in certain regions, prompting policymakers to cater to the interests of fishing enthusiasts. Future advocacy efforts may focus on maintaining accessibility to fishing resources and conserving fish stocks for future generations.
Luke Anedda hopes to pass down the family tradition of fishing to his young children, envisioning a future where they may take over the family business in Corner Inlet. The continuation of commercial net fishing in the area remains uncertain, but efforts are being made to ensure its sustainability and coexistence with recreational fishing. As the sun sets on another day of fishing in Port Welshpool, the legacy of generations of fishers in South Gippsland carries on in the pristine waters of Corner Inlet.
