Children fish for free as licence changed
Children under 16 no longer need a south-west Freshwater Angling LicenceIn an effort to promote recreational fishing as the great family-based activity that it is, the WA State Government recently removed the requirement for children under-16 years of age to hold a south-west Freshwater Angling Licence.
"The Government wants to promote affordable activities for families and this makes sense," said Fisheries Minister Ken Baston.
A recreational fishing licence for freshwater angling south of Greenough in WA 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.
But with changing environmental conditions, many anglers are now focusing on fishing for the introduced redfin perch. Unfortunately, this species feeds on native finfish and young marron. For these reasons, recreational fishers are encouraged not to return redfin to the water. They actually make great tucker.
Despite being known as the dry state, WA's freshwater rec fishing 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. So that's a tidy saving for the young fishers doing the right thing and doubtless celebrating with more money for tackle in their kick.
Fact File
- A discount of 50 per cent remains for children under-16 for other licenced fisheres activities in WA
- Every year, recreational fishing licence revenue is allocated to the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund
- This fund has supported more than 20 projects and seen more than $6.5 million invested into projects to enhance recreational fishing in WA
For more information, visit WA Fisheries website.
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