The free competition is held along the Campaspe River, between Kyneton and Echuca, on Sunday, October 15.

The event aims to highlight the problems the introduced species pose.

“Carp are the rabbits of our rivers. They are a major component of the Murray-Darling Basin’s fish population and they cause significant damage to rivers, wetlands and the natural environment,” North Central Catchment Management Authority project manager Angela Gladman said.

The Campaspe is home to a number of threatened and vulnerable native fish species.

There will be prizes for the best catch and the biggest bag.

Corn bait will be provided, and everyone aged 18 and over must have fishing licences.

Competitors must also comply with all relevant fishing laws.

The event will run from noon, with judging at 3pm. There will be six registration, judging and barbecue sites along the river: the Pig Shed, Kyneton Botanic Gardens; Axedale River Reserve, off William Street; Ayson’s Reserve, Elmore; Campaspe River Reserve, Rochester; Strathallan Community Hall; and Echuca Lions Park.