Prefer to come in and see us at our licensing counters rather than visit us online? From Monday 18 May 2020, you can. Our licensing counters will be reopening to the public for all your recfishing queries and licensing needs. Social distancing and good personal hygiene practices will be in place to help keep you and our staff safe.
Of course, you can also choose to apply for or renew your recreational fishing licence online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au or by post with a cheque or money order. Call us on 6551 4444 or email licensing@fish.wa.gov.au if you’re having any trouble renewing, or have any general rec fishing enquiries.
Recreational fishing during the COVID-19 pandemic – FAQs
Current as of 20 May 2020
Can I go fishing or boating?
Under the current Phase 2 easing of restrictions, indoor and outdoor non-recreational activities are allowed, with no more than 20 people.
Minimal shared equipment should be used and must be cleaned frequently.
The Western Australian Government urges all Western Australians to continue to practice social distancing and maintain good personal hygiene.
Will your offices be open soon?
From 18 May 2020 our licensing counters will start reopening to the public for all your recreational fishing queries and licensing needs. Social distancing and good personal hygiene practices will be in place to help keep you and our staff safe. Please call ahead, as we may have changed our hours as part of ongoing health and safety measures.
Can I apply for or renew my recreational fishing licence online or by post?
You can apply for or renew your recreational fishing licence online at
www.fish.wa.gov.au by clicking on the Fishing licence button towards the top right. This link will take you to the Licensing landing page, from where you will be directed to the Department of Transport’s DoTDirect interface, where you can complete your application. Don’t worry if you don’t have a DoTDirect account – just click no to the first question and you can proceed as a guest.
Licence applications and renewals can also be made by post. Send your completed form or renewal notice and cheque or money order (made out to Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development) to your closest regional office.
I’m having problems renewing my licence online – can I call someone for help?
We are contactable via phone and email to assist you with licensing and general fishing enquiries.
Our response times maybe a bit delayed so please be patient while we adjust to our new working arrangements – we will get back to you as soon as possible.
If we didn’t go fishing because of COVID-19, can we get a refund on our fishing licences?
Recreational fishing was not explicitly banned under the COVID-19 restrictions. The Department has not considered extending recreational fishing licenses or issuing refunds of recreational fishing licence fees.
Are Fisheries and Marine Officers still on patrol?
Yes, Fisheries and Marine Officers are continuing their land and sea-based patrols. As field officers they have the potential to interact with many people over the course of their working day, so they have adapted and set several procedures in place to ensure their, and others’, safety during the COVID-19 crisis. The way inspections are carried out has also been modified, and officers are mindful of their interactions.
What should I do if I see illegal fishing?
If you have seen something involving fish or fishing which doesn’t look quite right, the FishWatch phone line provides a quick and easy way to report it.
Phone FishWatch on 1800 815 507 to report sightings or evidence of illegal fishing, aquatic pests and aquatic diseases (including fish kills).
Should we still report shark sightings?
Yes, please continue to report shark sightings to the Water Police on 9442 8600. This number is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Shark sightings can also be reported to the Water Police through the SharkSmart app (available from the App Store or Google Play).