Module 8

Maximising your fishing

This one’s all about fishing smarter—not harder. In this module, we dive into the stuff that really ups your game: understanding how fish hunt (so you can beat them at their own tactics), making the most of every catch (yep, way beyond just fillets), and turning your haul into fresh, flavour-packed meals your mates and family will rave about. Whether you’re new to fishing or just ready to level up, this is where your catch-to-table journey gets a serious glow-up.

You’ll learn how to handle fish properly from the moment you land them, why underrated species deserve a spot on your plate, and how sensory science can help you outsmart even the wariest predators. It’s about respect—for the fish, for the ecosystem, and for the tradition of feeding yourself well. Get ready to waste less, eat better, and fish with more purpose than ever before.

Overview

By the end of this module, you’ll have a deep understanding of how fish behave, where they live, and what drives them to feed—all of which will help you make smarter, more informed decisions on the water. You’ll also learn best-practice catch and release techniques, how to keep and handle fish for peak eating quality, and how to honour your catch by using more of it, reducing waste, and turning less-loved species and cuts into standout meals. Whether you’re fishing for fun, for food, or both, this module will help you do it more ethically, effectively, and enjoyably.

Duration

6 hours 20 minutes

Testing

  • Uploaded practical assessment tasks (written and video)
  • Assessment by randomised quiz
  • Reflective worksheet upload
  • Short online survey

Resources

You will need a fresh printout of your Reflective Worksheet. If you have not kept a copy on your computer, you can download a new one here.

Download Your resources now

You will need:

  • your device
  • a digital video camera, if your phone does have one built in
  • headphones
    (if preferred)
  • access to a printer
  • blank paper
  • a pen, pencil, or texta
  • Bucket or esky
  • Crushed ice
  • Water
  • Salt
  • Thermometer

MODULE CONTRIBUTORS

Anna Phillips

One Buddy

Taylah Kirk, Cass Price & the OzFish Communications Team

OzFish Unlimited

Jo Starling

FOUNDER, Women’s Recreational Fishing League

Thanks to OzFish Unlimited for their invaluable support on this module.

Thanks to OzFish Unlimited for their invaluable support on this module.

Thanks to Anna Phillips of On The Plate and One Buddy Cook fame for her inspired assistance on this module.

Thanks to Anna Phillips of On The Plate and One Buddy Cook fame for her inspired assistance on this module.

welcome to module 8

Introduction

units of study

Here’s what you will learn

Fish: Inside and out — Anatomy of ish

Get under the scales with an inside look at fish anatomy so you can better understand how fish function, respond, and fight on the line.

Where fish live and why — a detailed investigation

Explore the habitats and behaviours of fish species across Australia, and learn how environmental factors shape their movements and feeding patterns.

How fish hunt

Unlock the sensory secrets of fish and discover how their hunting styles can help you master lure presentation, timing, and technique.

Catch and release done right

Learn the correct tools, timing, and techniques to give your released fish the best chance of survival — because doing it right really does matter.

Seafood fit for the family

From humane dispatching to perfect chilling and filleting, this unit shows you how to turn your catch into a top-quality meal every time.

Fishing for food, not for landfill

Discover how to make the most of every fish—from wings to frames—and why underused species and less familiar cuts are a win for your plate and the planet.

BEGIN

resources

Self-Reflection Worksheet

Download Worksheet
Additional Research Material

Links

For the best experience with this course, we recommend using the Google Chrome browser. Click here to download.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS & GRATITUDE

This course is supported by funding from the FRDC (Project ID 2022/033) on behalf of the Australian Government.

For more information on the full team behind this project, please click here.

The Women’s Recreational Fishing League acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live, work and fish on across Australia.
We acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.