Just in time for Easter, the State Government has removed the requirement for children under 16 to hold a south-west Freshwater Angling Licence, Fisheries Minister Ken Baston announced today.
"The Government wants to promote affordable activities for families and this makes sense," Mr Baston said.
A recreational fishing licence for freshwater angling south of Greenough was introduced to allow the recreational sector to contribute to the running costs associated with stocking trout into select south-west streams and dams.
Popular fishing spots include Big Brook Dam, Blackwood River, Donnelly River, Glen Mervyn Dam, Logue Brook Dam, Murray River, Serpentine River, Warren River and Wellington Dam, and streams and tributaries flowing into these locations.
With changing environmental conditions, many anglers are now focusing on fishing for redfin perch. This species feeds on native finfish and young marron. For these reasons, recreational fishers are encouraged not to return redfin to the water.
Freshwater angling is a popular activity with more than 10,000 south-west angling licences issued each year, including about 700 for children under 16.
The licence fee is $40 a year or $20 concession and covers a 12-month period from the date of issue.
Fact File
A discount of 50% remains for children under 16 for other licenced activities
Every year, recreational fishing licence revenue is allocated to the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund
This has funded more than 20 projects and seen more than $6.5 million invested into projects to enhance recreational fishing in WA
Minister's office - 6552 5400
