Fishing hot spots to be targeted over Easter holidays

NSW Fisheries Director-General, Steve Dunn, today reminded holidaymakers wanting to fish over Easter to familiarise themselves with the fishing rules and have a NSW recreational fishing licence.

Mr Dunn said Easter is a popular fishing time and fisheries officers will be checking licences and on the lookout for any illegal fishing.

"During Easter there will be several targeted operations in areas including the Central Coast and south-west NSW," Mr Dunn said.

"The operations will also be an opportunity for our officers to discuss fishing issues with anglers and advise them on aspects of rules."

Mr Dunn said fisheries officers will also be checking that anglers comply with size and bag limits - to ensure we can all enjoy this great pastime now and in the future.

"Four licence types are available: $5 for three days, $10 for one month, $25 for one year and $70 for three years.

"Anglers who buy the one-year and three-year licences - which account for around half of all licences sales - have the advantage of avoiding the last-minute rush for licences that often happens at popular holiday fishing spots."

Licences can be bought from more than 1100 outlets, including major bait and tackle shops, NSW Fisheries offices, more than 50 Kmart stores, selected Shell service stations, over the phone on 1300 369 365 or on the internet at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

"People found without a recreational fishing licence can be issued with on the spot penalties of $200."

For more information about NSW recreational fishing rules contact your nearest NSW Fisheries office.

Media inquiries: Eric Aubert (02) 8437 4948, 0419 185 375.