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More baby barra to be released into lake

KTI portfolio manager Jeff Cooper is preparing to release more barramundi fingerlings into Lake Kununurra next week.

The next batch of barramundi fingerlings will be released into Lake Kununurra next week as part of a restocking plan aimed at transforming the waterway into a game fishing paradise.

About 300,000 baby barramundi, bred at Kimberley Training Institute's Broome Aquaculture Centre, have already been released with some now expected to be legal size.

The restocking program started in January 2013 and KTI portfolio manager Jeff Cooper said there had been some recent reports that suggested locals had caught the iconic fish from the lake.

"We have heard a few reports coming in of people catching barramundi from 45cm-60cm in size from the lake, which is really encouraging and we would like to hear more," he said.

"If anyone does catch a barra in Lake Kununurra, please let us know."

Mr Cooper said the latest batch of 100,000 fingerlings were "outstanding" and had exceeded all expect- ations for growth and performance.

"If they continue to grow like this, it won't take them too long to reach the magical 55cm mark," he said.

Funded by the Department of Fisheries as part of the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy, Fisheries Minister Ken Baston said the project was proving to be a great success.

"The project is well on its way to reintroducing barramundi back into their natural habitat, with the aim of creating a fishery on Kununurra's doorstep," he said.

If you have caught a barramundi in Lake Kununurra, you can let the KTI team know by calling 9192 9140.