Cloudy skies and inclement weather couldn't dampen high spirits at the annual Wyangala Danglers Junior Carp Competition over the weekend. Families from across the region, as far as Cootamundra travelled to the famed dam for a day of fishing and fun.

As a sub-club of the Wyangala country club, the event sees the waters heaving with anglers from across the region, hauling in fish that often weigh nearly as much as the anglers themselves.

Being a pest species, targeting the carp makes for a responsible way for anglers to make a small impact, as well as showcase their skills. About seventy carp were removed from the dam by the anglers, with catches not being returned to the water and disposed of.

Young Deegan Whitmore was awarded biggest catch of the day, with a 66cm carp.

The award presentations went across generations, with returning families coming to support the club and have some fun. Whilst many of the anglers were new to both life and fishing, the advice from across the range of experience was to just have fun.

Digby Oldham was attending with his family, who were returning to see relatives nearby "Get some fun out of it, go to BCF, get cod on the hook, see if you have a bit of luck and have some fun while you're at it."

The Danglers host both members only and open comps throughout the year at Wyangala Dam.

Anyone wanting to join the fishing club must first be a member of the Wyangala Country Club, for $10 a year, with concession rates available.

The fishing club membership rates start at $5 per adult for 1 year, $2 for juniors (16yrs) for 1 year.

The event will be held again in 2026, on January 10, but no promises of much-needed rain this time next year.