Local 10yr old wins Silver Perch category in statewide fishing comp

DURING the June-July school holidays, nearly 300 kids participated in the Qld Kids Fishing Classic, a statewide fishing competition. Local entrant Elliot Fowler won the “Silver Perch for 8-12yr category” with his two fish measuring 740mm.  

The competition winners were determined by the longest two fish in various species categories.  

Elliot expressed his excitement, saying, “I really enjoy fishing, but this time I had a goal to keep doing better, no matter the weather. It was amazing to do something I love in a competition.” 

Participants logged a total of 3,284 fish, including 103 different species. The competition encourages kids to enter every fish, regardless of size, keeping all participants engaged and contributing valuable data for research.  

The QKFC, open to all Queensland kids, runs every school holiday with three age groups: 3-7, 8-12, and 13-17 years. The competition, managed through an app, allows kids to fish from land, kayaks, or boats anywhere in Queensland. 

With 12 species categories, including freshwater, saltwater, and pest species, there’s a fish for everyone. Prizes worth over $6000 are up for grabs, including a kayak awarded by a lucky draw. Random nightly draws ensure that even those who aren’t catching many fish have chances to win. There’s also a category for collecting rubbish, promoting environmental awareness. 

Samantha Beckmann, co-founder of 2 Bent Rods and organiser of the QKFC said, “initially it was planned to be an annual event. However, due to positive feedback, it now runs every school holiday.” 

“The kids and parents are really embracing it. Kids are proud of their achievements, and parents appreciate the opportunity to bond with their children over fishing.” 

Elliot’s Dad Nev said, “In the school holidays we normally go camping for a week, but these last Jun/Jul holidays Elliot talked us into camping and fishing for 11 days.” 

“About 170 of the fish Elliot caught were from his kayak.  Elliot being only 10 years old, did so so well getting 3rd overall with 183 fish caught in total.” 

The QKFC promotes environmental stewardship by including categories for pest fish like carp and tilapia, raising awareness of their harmful effects.  

Tickets for the September school holidays are on sale now for $30 at the event's website