The salmon are here and Recfishwest is putting thousands of dollars in prizes on the line in 2022 Salmon Slam

Schools of salmon are arriving on WA’s south coast and anglers have the chance to land thousands of dollars in prizes in the 2022 Salmon Slam fishing competition.

Recfishwest launched its Awesome Autumn of Salmon campaign last week, marking the start of the 2022 Salmon Slam fishing competition.

The three-month fishing competition invites people of all ages and abilities to throw in a line for the chance to win a series of prizes, including a top prize worth more than $3000.

More than 1600 people took part in last year’s competition, making it one of the biggest fishing contests in Australia.

Recfishwest chief executive Dr Andrew Rowland said WA fishers spent $331 million annually chasing salmon, providing a boost to the regional economy.

“It’s WA’s salmon abundance that underpins the awesome fishing experiences enjoyed by so many fishers in the Great Southern, South West and, when we get a good run, in the metro area,” he said.

“The run generates a great boost for local tackle, retail and hospitality outlets, and other providers.

“However, the real value lies in the pleasure it gives to tens of thousands of anglers from a variety of backgrounds — the time spent fishing with family and friends is priceless.”

The land-based fishing competition attracts crowds of keen fishers to popular beach-fishing spots around Albany such as Cheynes Beach, Salmon Holes and Nanarup.

Dr Rowland said the Salmon Slam was a great family-friendly competition for new or seasoned anglers.

“Salmon is a part of the West Aussie fishing lifestyle,” he said.

“We will continue to raise the profile of this important sportfish to make sure they’re recognised and celebrated as one of WA’s iconic recreational fishing species.”

The competition runs from March 1 to May 31.

Entries must be made though the Salmon Slam app.

Visit recfishwest.org.au.