The 2021 program raised $30,000 with 460 participants making up 158 participating teams.
Hogan — who at the time of winning the competition was an agronomist at Nutrien Ag Solutions in Deniliquin, but has recently transferred to the Cootamundra branch — said his time spent in Deni is what introduced him to fishing.
‘‘I moved to Deni in 2017 to take up a position with Nutrien.
‘‘I had never really done much fishing before the move, but having the river right there I felt inclined to buy a boat and start getting into it,’’ said Hogan.
While Hogan admits he is ‘‘not the best at it (fishing)’’, he said a few of his co-workers were keen anglers. He specifically mentioned Kerran Howe who ‘‘caught 90 per cent of the fish’’ for the team.
Hogan said participating in the Bayer Big Fish Challenge was a ‘‘no brainer’’ for himself and coworkers.
‘‘It was great as it was something for us to do together as a team, while also supporting a great cause.
‘‘Supporting mental health for farmers by catching fish just seemed like a no brainer.’’
Growing up on a farm and in his profession, Hogan has experienced first hand the struggles of isolation, drought and floods.
‘‘Initiatives like these are hugely important,’’ he said.
‘‘Growing up on a farm and then becoming an agronomist, I have spent a lot of time with farmers listening to their struggles and witnessing their battles.
‘‘And being in Deni with all the politics surrounding water.
‘‘Just to be able to give back a bit by helping to raise some money and raise awareness feels great.’’
To win the competition, anglers were required to catch the largest fish in as many different species as they could.
As a team, the Deni crew raised $1500.
Hogan encouraged others to get involved and said there’s a good chance he will be registering again for this year’s challenge.
Registrations for individuals or teams are now open for the 2022 Bayer Big Fish Challenge.
For more information or to register, go to https://bayerbigfish.com//.
