When fishing in NSW waters, both freshwater and saltwater, you’ll need to carry a receipt showing your payment of the Recreational Fishing Fee. This applies when spear fishing, hand lining, hand gathering, trapping, bait collecting and prawn netting or when in possession of fishing gear in, on or near these waters.

You can apply for a Recreational Fishing Licence online. The 2016 fees are $7 for 3 days, $14 for 1 month, $35 for 1 year and $85 for 3 years. You can pay the NSW recreational fishing fee at hundreds of agents throughout NSW such as over the counter at most fishing tackle shops. You can also pay the fee at some caravan parks, local shops and service stations, many Kmart stores, online or by calling 1300 369 365.

NSW fisheries officers routinely patrol waterways, boat ramps and foreshores advising anglers about responsible fishing practices and ensuring compliance with NSW fishing regulations. Fishcare volunteers can also be found at boat ramps and on the water in dedicated Fishcare vessels, advising anglers about responsible fishing practices and distributing saltwater fishing guides and sticky rulers.

Information on bag and size limits, fishing closures and legal fishing gear can be obtained from the NSW fisheries website, or by visiting your local tackle shop. When fishing in NSW waters, both freshwater and saltwater, you are required by law to pay the NSW recreational fishing fee and carry a receipt showing the payment of the fee.