Fisherwomen to unite

Belinda Lindell holds up her big barra catch.

THE number of women wetting a line on the water is on the increase - so much so that a committee of women is organising a women's saltwater barramundi fishing competition in Central Queensland this year.

"This is a significant opportunity for the Rockhampton region and surrounding areas to showcase a great event which has already attracted interest from Cairns to New South Wales," committee member Belinda Lindel said.

"By all reports and the support that the WTF (Women that Fish) Barra Classic is getting, this competition will only continue to grow as it appears that women anglers are enthusiastic and keen to wet a line," she said.

"We organised this competition as there were no fishing competitions for women in this region and saw an opportunity to share our passion for fishing with like-minded women."

 Offering an economical catch-and-release fishing competition to female anglers over the age of 18, the aim is to attract both experienced anglers and new female anglers who wish to learn and experience barramundi fishing.

"Over the years, I have heard feedback from women who have competed in women's-only fishing competitions who reported an increase in their self-esteem and confidence, thus improving their overall mental health," Belinda said.

"It's also a fantastic and fun way to make new friends around the country that share a common interest."

For more information, contact Belinda on 0407674198 or belinda2428 @hotmail.com or Shara VanHaren (0429 923 243) or go to the Facebook page WTF Women that Fish Barra Classic 2012.