Gaden was listed as one of eight sites due to be closed by the Primary Industries department as part of NSW mini-budget cuts.

Steve Samuels, president of the NSW Council of Freshwater Anglers, said that he had an invitation to see Mr Macdonald in Sydney with Member for Monaro, Steve Whan.

Although he had requested an agenda, nothing had been forthcoming and Mr Samuels said: "I'm probably going to be flying a bit blind."

He thought it unlikely that any agreement would be made on the day and it was most likely that he would be returning to liaise with all stakeholders, he said.

"I've got a good enough sense of the feeling from the rally on Sunday and of the importance of Gaden to everyone there and it is clear that Gaden's tentacles spread way beyond the Snowy Mountains," Mr Samuels said.

The moves follow a lively rally at Gaden on Sunday morning when over 200 people heard cross-party speeches in support of Gaden's retention as a trout and salmon breeding establishment, tourism and education facility.

Mr Samuels was extremely vocal in his condemnation of the NSW Government's action and asked: "Has the government got any compassion for this community?"

Mr Whan has vowed to fight his government's decision to close the hatchery and said: "This decision can't proceed; it's one I will not allow to proceed."

He said that he expected to know whether it could be saved within a couple of weeks.

Liberal Member for Bega, Andrew Constance accused the government of using global economic crisis as an excuse.

"This is a stupid, ignorant and arrogant decision," Mr Constance said.

Upper House Member, Melinda Pavey called on Mr Whan to ensure that any rescue package was clearly spelt out and not discussed behind closed door.

The NSW Government also came in for criticism from Snowy River Shire Mayor, John Cahill, who called it "morally and financially bankrupt".