Member for Bathurst Paul Toole and mayor Kathy Sajowitz released the 500 externally-tagged, 22-centimetre rainbow trout that were bred at the Department of Primary Industries’ Dutton Trout Hatchery near Ebor.

Anglers who catch the trout are being asked to contact the DPI.

“There is no better place than Lake Oberon to release these larger trout, as the area is known for its great fishing,” Mr Toole said.

“As part of developing a longer term stocking strategy for the lake, the fish have a yellow external tag attached to them.

“Recreational fishers who land one of these feisty trout are asked to record their capture by phone or on the web. This will let DPI fisheries managers know that the fish are growing well. 

“Anyone who does this will receive a free trout lure in return.”

Oberon branch of the Central Acclimatisation Society (CAS) member Peter Byrom said the larger trout will do better in the presence of redfin, which have had a negative effect on the lake since they were legally introduced five years ago.

“We hope the trout are too big for redfin to prey on and they will continue to grow over the next five to seven years,” Mr Byrom said.

“It’s critical to contact DPI if you catch a tagged trout as this will provide data that will be used to gauge the growth of the trout.”