New survey will measure the scale of local fishing

Thousands of people try their luck during the salmon run each year — and the economic benefit of recreational salmon fishing will now be investigated.

Coastal towns such as Albany become a hub for the fishing frenzy, but the exact benefit of that activity has remained a mystery.

The main points of investigation will be the amount of money spent on fishing tackle, bait, ice, fuel, accommodation and food.

The study was requested by peak body Recfishwest, which will host the second annual Great Southern Salmon Campout at Cheynes Beach this weekend, in partnership with WA fishing magazine Western Angler and Cheynes Beach Caravan Park.

Fishers will arrive at the Great Southern fishing spot today and fish until Sunday.

The Great Southern Salmon Campout is an indication of the potential tourism benefits of the salmon run.

Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly said the WA salmon run was one of the most exciting periods on the recreational fishing calendar.

“We know that tens of thousands of people wet a line each year to experience this amazing WA fishery,” he said.

“Many of those travel to fish, providing an economic boost to tourism, hospitality and retail businesses on the south and west coasts.

“A study that quantifies the economic benefit is needed to provide a strong foundation for promoting the potential tourism, recreational, and community value of this fishery.

“It will also help guide future fisheries management decisions and will be the key to unlocking future projects that enhance WA’s recreational fishing experiences.

“The chase for salmon is on, with schools of fish spotted off Albany in recent weeks.”

The Great Southern Salmon Campout will give people the chance to learn new skills from industry experts and fish from world-class beaches.

Fishers can take part in the study by visiting questionpro.com.