Arcadia Fish Hatchery Open Day – It's free and it's fun
by Victorian Fisheries Authority 14 Feb 03:22 UTC
21 March 2026
Murray cod © Trellys
Fans of the mighty Murray cod will be flocking to the Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery Open Day on Saturday 21 March.
Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said a visit to the hatchery on the banks of the Goulburn River, only 15 minutes from Shepparton, is a great way to learn more about this fascinating species, have some free family fun and feast on some fine fish.
"Running from 9am to 4pm, the open day includes tours by our fish production experts of the hatchery's 125 ponds which can produce up to 6 million Murray cod and golden perch each year," Mr Dowling said.
"Another highlight is the Arcadia Visitors Centre with its adventure playground, educational signage, picnic areas and fish-out pond stocked with Murray cod, golden perch and silver perch.
"There are also free learn-to-fish clinics for kids, live music, a fishing simulator, outdoor games and fishy-themed arts and crafts."
The aquaculture hub will explain how Murray cod are grown for Victorian seafood lovers with samples of smoked cod, while Aquna Sustainable Murray cod will have a pop-up stall with sales and tastings of their product used in restaurants and home kitchens.
Filleting and cooking demonstrations will help visitors to make the most of the delicious fish, and if that has made you hungry lunch can be purchased including fish burgers, fish and chips, a sausage sizzle and a coffee van.
Leaders from the Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating Network will be sharing their fishing tips and providing advice to women wanting to become involved in boating.
The Fisheries Education team will keep the kids entertained with a range of activities as well as answering questions about fish.
Fishing expert, Robbie Alexander will be there to chat about local fishing spots and tips, and a scientist will also be dissecting Murray cod and discussing their fascinating anatomy.
The Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery is located at 200 Ross Road, Arcadia.
For more information go to www.vfa.vic.gov.au/arcadiaopenday.