Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly has announced Western Australian's can fish licence-free this Sunday in celebration of National Gone Fishing Day.
In WA, licences are normally required at this time of year for recreational fishing from a powered boat, as well for catching rock lobsters, abalone fishing in the Southern Zone, South‑West freshwater angling and net fishing where allowed.
Sunday's Gone Fishing Day gives first-timers a chance to experience these fishing pursuits licence-free. All other recreational fishing rules - such as bag, boat and possession limits, fish size limits, and any seasonal or area closures - will still apply on the day.
For example, fishers will also need to adhere to the annual demersal finfish closure, which takes place for two months from October 15, 2019.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) 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.
Make sure you know the rules that apply by checking the Recreational Fishing Guide online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/ or search the rules species by species at the homepage.
Recfishwest have a Smartphone App you can download - which also includes WA's fishing rules.
As stated by Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly:
"The McGowan Government understands both the social and economic value that quality recreational fishing experiences deliver in WA - including health and relaxation benefits.
"As Fisheries Minister, I am committed to providing quality recreational fishing experiences to West Aussies, through initiatives including artificial reefs and fish restocking projects.
"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.
"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."
