Get Hooked... It's Fun to Fish

If you're a primary school based in NSW then don't hesitate, come join the successful Get Hooked... It's Fun to Fish, Program

Since 2008, 870 schools involving some 78 000 enthusiastic students have enjoyed the FREE & fun “Get Hooked… It's Fun to Fish” primary school program!

Designed for Stage 2 and 3 (Years 3-6) primary school students, this interactive program teaches recreational fishing skills and promotes responsible fishing practices to protect aquatic habitats.

Students will learn:

Fishing skills for lifelong enjoyment
Environmental responsibility & sustainable fishing
Fishing and water safety

What teachers get:

🎣 Six engaging modules based on the Junior Fishing Code, aligned with the Australian Curriculum
🎣 Access to online resources with fun classroom & outdoor activities, including a Teachers Manual with lesson plans
🎣 Guidance from staff and Fishcare volunteers
🎣 Option to book an interactive online e-Incursion to support understanding of module content 
🎣 Opportunity to participate in online competitions

The Six Fishing Codes

  1. Take only what you need - Preserve the food chain
  2. Fish with friends - Stay safe near water
  3. You're the solution to water pollution - Protect waterways
  4. Put the little ones back - Follow size regulations
  5. Don't leave your tackle behind - Keep waterways clean
  6. Quality catchments = quality fish - Understand ecosystem impacts

If you have any inquiries please email gethooked.fisheries@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Program contacts

Check out all the great things teachers and students are saying about the program!

"Just wanted to thank you and the team for your support and engagement with the get hooked program. The fishing practical was a perfect way to wrap up the program! We were lucky enough to catch an Australian salmon and a flounder!"

Samson Fung

Stage 3 Assistant Principal, Homebush West PS  

April 2025

“I just wanted to extend a massive thanks to you and Pete for teaching our students from Murwillumbah Public School such practical skills and knowledge about the world of fishing. Over the last two days, you provided them with an incredible opportunity—one that many had never experienced before. For some of our students, it was their very first time catching a fish, and the excitement and pride on their faces were unforgettable. The sessions were so well-organized, with clear expectations for students and excellent management of safety, ensuring everyone could enjoy the experience confidently and responsibly. Your expertise, passion, and preparation made these days both engaging and memorable. It’s an experience our students will talk about for a long time! Thank you again for creating such a wonderful opportunity for them and we hope to see you again next year.”

Ellie P

Classroom Teacher, Murwillumbah Public School 2024

“I just wanted to pass on thanks from all of the families who attended yesterday's workshop to you and your team. The kids all had a wonderful learning experience, and the adults were all very impressed with how well organised and engaging the whole workshop was. I know it has given a few of us a push to get the kids out fishing again soon and at least one family is planning to include fishing rods in the Santa sacks this year. Thanks for all your hard work and for being so helpful and accommodating of our group.”

Zoe M

Sutherland Shire Homeschool 2024

“We just wanted to express a massive thank you for the incredible excursion that our Year 3's experienced at Ebor Dutton Trout Hatchery. The students and parents are still talking about it and all the students are desperate to go back. The staff were phenomenal and very professional. We also wish to thank Rowan, Roger and yourself, plus all the other Fisheries staff who provided such a fabulous experience as well as providing a wealth of knowledge.”

Grania F

The Armidale School 2024

“Just wanted to thank you for the excellent program you ran on Monday. The students loved it, and your delivery was outstanding. Get Hooked is greatly appreciated by our school community.”

David O

Principal, Wardell Public School 2024

Image gallery

kids with fishing rods along a wharf
smiling kids
child holding a fish
a child smiling
volunteer and kids with fish
kids with fishing rods along a wharf
smiling kids
child holding a fish
a child smiling
volunteer and kids with fish