Licence-free fishing day on Sunday

Wednesday, 16 October 2019 09:15

By Hannah Salt

There will be a licence-free fishing day this Sunday to celebrate National Gone Fishing Day.

In Western Australia, licenses are usually required at this time of year for abalone fishing in the Southern Zone, catching rock lobsters, recreational fishing from a powered boat, South-West freshwater angling and net fishing where allowed.

The announcement by Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly allows first-timers a chance to experience these fishing pursuits licence-free.

All other recreational fishing rules will still apply including bag, boat and possession limits, fish size limits, and any seasonal or area closures.

For example, fishers will need to adhere to the annual demersal finfish closure, which takes place for two months from October 15, 2019.

Fisheries compliance officers will be conducting patrols as usual to check fishers and, while a licence may not be required, they will be monitoring compliance of other recreational fishing rules.

Minister Kelly said he understood both the social and economic value of quality recreational fishing experiences in WA.

"We have so many diverse fishing experiences across the State and we are keen for tourists from overseas and around Australia to come on holiday here. We are working to expand recreational fishing opportunities that give visitors and even local tourists greater enjoyment," he said.

"Gone Fishing Day is designed to encourage as many people as possible to participate, so I encourage you to get out there and enjoy the day and, for any first-timers, have fun and give it a go."

Make sure you know the rules that apply by checking the Recreational Fishing Guide online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/.

Recfishwest also have a Smartphone App you can download - which also includes WA's fishing rules.