NSW fishers are being urged to buy a licence and follow the rules if they want this holiday season to be a jolly one. 

NSW Department of Primary Industries, Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said fisheries officers will be patrolling NSW waterways throughout the summer months to make sure fishers hold a current recreational fishing licence and follow a range of rules including fish size and bag limits. 

”Summer holidays are usually one of the busiest times on the water for our fisheries officers,” Mr Tritton said. 

“Fishing is an essential part of many summer holiday traditions and a time when a lot of people who don’t fish on a regular basis try their luck in our rivers, lakes and oceans.  

“But before you take to the water, you need to remember that a licence is required for all types of fishing activity including netting for prawns, spear fishing, shellfish gathering and angling, and must be carried on the person at all times.”  

Mr Tritton said a $200 on the spot fine applies for fishing without a current fishing licence, unless exempt.   

In addition, a penalty of $75 applies if fishers do not have the licence in their immediate possession.  

“Fishers must also make sure they comply with a host of rules and regulations including gear restrictions, closed areas to fishing as well as fish size and bag limits,” he said. 

“The rules are in place to encourage responsible fishing, reduce the chance of over fishing and to ensure stocks remain at sustainable levels. 

“These rules guarantee that the next generation of fishers will be able to have memorable and successful fishing holidays for years to come. 

“Fishers should also take care when fishing and check the weather and water conditions before heading out. This is also a timely reminder to fishers to take particular care when fishing on rock platforms and take all safety precautions.” 

NSW Recreational fishing licences are available at more than 1000 outlets including bait and tackle shops, and some Kmart stores as well as your local Fisheries office.  

Licences are also available online at www.licence.nsw.gov.au or by calling 1300 369 365.

Media contact: Alyssa Fitzgerald (02) 6391 3686 or 0459 141 561