The Yamaha sponsored event runs from Friday through Sunday, and publicity officer, Brett McInnes, is delighted with the the way things are shaping up.

“The dam has been fishing well, more water is going in than out at the moment and cod season opens before the start of the competition this year, so we could not have asked for better,” Mr McInnes said.

“Nominations so far have been strong and anglers are encouraged to sign up so they can get on the water early Friday morning with the competition officially commencing at 7 o’clock.

Committee members will be at the Copeton State Park tomorrow afternoon so people will be able to sign on, set up their camp and be ready to go the next day.

Nominations can also be completed before Friday at the Northern Foreshores Reserve, Roy Parsons Marine, Inverell , and at Wreckers & Tourism, Inverell.

“Competition is sure to be strong with more than 700 anglers expected to be vying for in excess of $20,000 in cash and prizes,” Mr McInnes said.

The champion angler throughout the competition will walk away with $1000 cash plus prizes, with the champion club getting a $1000 worth of fingerlings to bolster their local waterways.

“The festival committee also places a strong emphasis on junior participation with secret length prizes on offer over each day of the competition in the junior category,” Mr McInnes said.

“On top of that Fishing Tackle Australia have also kindly donated a rod and reel combination for the first 100 juniors to sign on.”

While Murray Cod is always viewed as the trophy catch in this competition prize categories also exist for Golden Perch, Catfish and Silver Perch.

“Some people target a particular species while others are happy just to try their luck and enjoy a long weekend at the dam,” Mr McInnes said.

“The competition has a wide drawing area bringing people from Queensland, over on the coast and as far inland as Walgett.”

The catch-and-release competition is in its 10th year and is a major drawcard for Inverell and the North West.

“There has been exponential growth in the number of participants each year as the reputation of the festival grows,” Mr McInnes said.

“Many see it as a great opportunity for a family weekend away and concessional nominations are available for families, children and pensioners.”

For further information contact Darrel Kachel 0427 221-057 or committee president, Ray O’Neill on 6722-2831.