Western fishing clubs and councils are some of over 70 organisations to receive grants across NSW to revamp native fish numbers in the state's waterways.

The NSW government has approved at least 11 applicants in the Western Plains for funding ranging from $2000 to $12,000 to help release priority sporting fish including Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Murray Cod.

Under the $500,000 Recreational Fishing Trust for the 2024-25 season, applicants will receive two dollars for every one dollar they spend on stocking them.

This year, Collarenebri Watersports & Fishing Club will be taking up the offer of $4000 to help replenish golden perch (yellowbelly) or Murray cod numbers.

"We're obviously very grateful for all the grants that we get given them to keep our river in the state that it is and to keep fishing and camping and alive," said club President and Walgett Mayor Jasen Ramien.

"When my grandfather taught me to fish, I never looked back. I love it, and so does my son and I see a lot of young kids around Collarenebri and the district who are the same.

"By doing that sort of stuff - teaching kids to fish - all that helps with crime, keeps them off the street, keeps them out of trouble, hopefully keep them away from drugs.

Cr Ramien said he doesn't know when the club will begin releasing fingerlings - small, young fish general up to a year old - and will depend on stock availability at their preferred hatchery. 

The Nyngan RSL Fishing Club also received funding with Bogan Shire Council. IMAGE: Western Plains App/ River McCrossen

The program began in the late 1990s and has since released over 15 million native fish into NSW waterways, including around 825,000 in 2023-24.

Councils and fishing clubs in Warren, Narromine, Bourke, Lachlan and Bogan and Walgett shire also received funding, including $12,000 between Bogan Shire Council and the Nyngan RSL Fishing Club.

The club and council released around 14,000 yellowbelly fingerlings into the Bogan River in April this year after the Bogan Carp Muster, which saw around 2500 invasive European Carp hooked from local waterways.

"Carp will still have the upper hand," Club Treasurer Jayson Bates said.

"But the only thing we can keep doing is keep putting the fingerlings in there.

"It does help.

"Fishing's a way of life out here. You go up the laneways and nearly everyone's got a boat in their backyard."

Around 75 groups take part in the program each year.