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Fetid carp became a delicacy at Jingellic last week when a NSW bowfishing introductory showed anglers a new method to rid inland waterways of the noxious species.
The 18-month trial, to be held in inland waterways and creeks in the Upper Murray and parts of Coppabella Creek, introduced keen fishermen to the technique and eating the fish.
NSW fisheries conservation manager aquatic ecosystems Luke Pearce put on a cooking masterclass to dispel preconceptions about its use in dishes.
“There was a bit of apprehension but everyone tried it and were surprised about how good it tasted,” he said.
“It’s a pretty hard sell, we’ve got a pretty strong mindset in Australian community it’s not palatable and difficult to eat.
“Once people try it and prepare it properly they’re surprised at how good it is – it’s quite versatile.”
Mr Pearce said there was a direct link between the abundance of carp and the decline of the southern pygmy perch in Coppabella.
Department of Primary Industries licensing director Andrew Moriarity said anglers travelled to Jingellic from as far away as Taree and Sydney.
He said safety and learning about proper bowfishing techniques was a focus of the introductory weekend.
“It went very well, the aim was to hold a workshop where we could introduce interested bowfishers into the trial,” Dr Moriarty said.
“This is deemed a fishing technique, not just using a hunting bow and shooting arrows in the water.
“There are no unrestrained arrows flying around, as it’s very specific equipment, using a tethered arrow that pierces and retrieves the fish.”
A long shot in bowfishing would be considered about 10 metres, although a few beginners pulled off 2m to 5m shots – which Dr Moriarity said made the discipline “inherently safe”.
Dr Moriarity said he hoped to attract 300 to 400 people to take part in the trial.
Call the DPI customer service unit on (02) 6391 3750 for more information about bowfishing in NSW.