Who needs to obtain a fishing permit?

All anglers over the age of 18 need to purchase a fishing licence before fishing in rivers, lakes and the ocean.

Exemptions are granted for Aborigines and old-age pensioners. Those fishing from a charter-boat or under a fishing guide may also be exempt. Check with the charter operator or guide before you go fishing. Check here for all exemptions.

Where do I buy a permit?

Recreational fishing licences are available from Fisheries NSW by calling 1300 369 365. Most National Parks and Wildlife Service offices and Fisheries NSW offices sell licences. Some tackle shops and sporting equipment retailers - designated 'gold agents' appointed by Fisheries NSW - can also sell licences. A list of gold agents is available at the Fisheries NSW website: www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au

How much do they cost?

Recreational fishing licences cost $5 for three days, $10 for one month, $25 for one year and $70 for three years.

What do they look like?

Recreational fishing licences have recently been redesigned so that they can be folded into three and laminated into a credit-card size. If you want to laminate the licence make sure that the first two panels are visible.

Will I need supporting material when I apply?

A current driver's licence or a passport is sufficient. Anyone seeking an exemption will need to provide a current Commonwealth Pensioners Concession Card, a Veterans Affairs Gold Treatment Card (endorsed 'totally and permanently incapacitated' or 'extreme disablement adjustment') or a letter from the Commonwealth Department of Veterans Affairs stating the person receives a disability pension of 70 per cent or more, or an intermediate pension.

Does a licence allow me unlimited catches?

No. Strict bag limits apply to most popular game fish in NSW and are regularly revised. Fish must also meet strict size requirements and spawning females are protected. There are heavy penalties for exceeding bag limits.

Are there additional restrictions at certain times of year?

Fishing in designated trout and salmon waters is restricted to between October and June to allow fish to spawn.

What happens if I'm caught without a permit?

There are heavy fines for fishing without a valid permit - from a $200 on-the-spot fine to a court fine of $2,200. The illegal taking of protected species can attract fines of up to $3,000 for each offence. Anyone caught exceeding the bag limit for Murray crayfish (or taking females) faces a penalty of up to $11,000 and/or a prison sentence of three months.

Why does NSW insist on recreational fishing permits?

Money raised from the licence system is channelled into recreational fishing trusts to protect fish species in NSW. Recreational fishing permits allow the authorities to monitor fishing activity throughout the State, ensuring fish stocks are not put under undue pressure.

Are overseas and interstate visitors exempted?

No. Everyone is required to purchase a licence unless they are hiring a charter-boat or are accompanied by a certified fishing guide. Visitors should always check with the charter-boat owner or fishing guide before casting a line.

Do I need a licence to fish in the ocean?

Yes. Licences apply equally to ocean fishing.

What restrictions apply to ocean fishing?

A number of species are protected. In November 2000, the NSW Minister for Fisheries announced this ban would now include the taking of wobbegong sharks. There are bag limits for marlin, sharks, rays, yellowfin, longtail, bluefin, bigeye, albacore tuna, gemfish, pearl perch, wahoo, mangrove jacks and Moses perch. Recreational anglers are not allowed to take more than ten litres of prawns per day. Minimum length requirements apply to dusky flathead and snapper.