All I want for Christmas is a fishing licence

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.

"Fishing is an integral part of an Australian summer for many people, even if they only throw a line in once a year," Mr Tritton said.

"But it’s important to remember that if you’re trying your luck on the water during the break - you’d better make sure you’ve got your fishing licence in your pocket too."

A licence is required for all types of fishing activity including angling, netting for prawns, spear fishing and shellfish gathering, and must be carried at all times."

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

"And seasonal fishers can sometimes forget that they need a licence to fish in all waterways in NSW.

"But a $200 on the spot fine applies for fishing without a current fishing licence, unless exempt and a $75 fine applies if fishers do not have the licence in their immediate possession.

"Fishers must also make sure they comply with rules and regulations including gear restrictions, closed areas to fishing as well as fish size and bag limits.

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

"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."

Money raised from the sale of recreational fishing licences is placed into two trusts and can only be spent on projects to improve recreational fishing in NSW.

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.

More information can be found in the NSW Recreational Fishing Guides, which are available from NSW DPI offices and most places where NSW recreational fishing licences are sold.

Email: