Western Australian fishing enthusiasts are reminded that a Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence (RFBL) is required when undertaking any type of fishing from a motorised boat.
North Region Compliance Manager, Stuart McDowall, said the RFBL was a must when doing any fishing activity, whether that’s line fishing (including catch and release fishing), crab catching or spear-fishing from a powered boat.
Mr McDowall said they regularly finding a lot of boat anglers around the Kimberley and Pilbara region fishing without a licence. He warns that not having a Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence (RFBL) can mean a fine up to $2,000 for each person. It can also mean you will lose your catch.
In short, the message is to make sure you do have your RFBL when fishing anywhere in WA. And also to carry the document on you in case fishing officers come calling!
You are obliged by law to show you’re RFBL, when requested by a WA Fisheries and Marine Officer.
Introduced in 2009, the Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence is an initiative to assist in the sensible management of fishing in WA.
Further information on the website: www.fish.wa.gov.au
