Weekend pay-to-fish farm dam

Families with kids, beginner anglers, scout and community groups, and locals after a relaxed day out.

Entry or session fees per person, plus rod hire, bait sales, and fees for fish you choose to let people take home. Group and birthday bookings add extra income.

• Friendly with beginners and kids
• Basic knowledge of fish and pond care
• Practical, handy around property
• Organised with bookings

• Check your state's rules on stocking fish and whether any aquaculture or stocking permit applies
• Check whether visitors need a recreational fishing licence on your water, as this varies by state
• Public liability insurance, plus water safety for children with clear rules and supervision
• Council approval for public access, parking and toilets
• Water quality, algae and fish health, especially in hot weather

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your existing dam or pond, stocking and gear hire. These are estimates only, so check your own costs before you start.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how often you open and how many visitors you attract. Hot weather and water quality issues can affect how you run it.

Check your state's rules on stocking fish and whether any aquaculture or stocking permit applies. Check whether visitors need a recreational fishing licence on your water, council approval for public access, parking and toilets, and public liability insurance.