The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is the government agency responsible for managing South Australia’s fish stocks on behalf of the government and community.

PIRSA manages the fishing activities of an estimated 356,000 recreational fishers.

Bream in fishing net in wooden boat

Fishing limits search

Use the search function to see the daily size, bag, and boat limits that apply for each species.

No fishing sign on beach

Closures

Fishing closures may be permanent, seasonal or temporary. Find out which fishing restrictions apply in SA waters.

A fishing rod propped up near a vast body of water

Fishing gear

There are rules for using fishing gear, including gear combinations, and approved bait and berley.

Several fish swim just under the water's surface.

Protected and pest species

Some fish species are protected and must not be taken if caught. Aquatic pests need to be reported and not returned to SA waters.

A cluster of commercial fishing boats, including a prominent red-and-white vessel with equipment on deck, are docked at a bustling marina. The scene is brightly lit by afternoon sun, with blue skies, scattered clouds, and reflections shimmering on the calm water.

Charter boat fishing limits

There are catch limits for commercial charter boat fishing in SA marine waters, which vary from limits for recreational fishers.

Trees on Murray River

Reservoir fishing

Fishing is permitted in many reservoirs in South Australia. You need to buy a permit and follow the conditions of access.

Busy seafood market interior with people gathered around large fish trays, weighing stations, and crates of ice-packed fish under bright lights.

Illegal catch sales

Selling your catch without a commercial fishing licence is illegal, and there are significant consequences to both the fisher and buyer.

A person's hand holding a smart phone in front of a sunset on a beach with the SA Rec Fishing App displayed

SA fishing app

The free SA fishing app is a must-have guide with all the information you need to fish in South Australia. Access the recreational fishing rules on the go, or on the water.

About recreational fishing rules

Recreational fishers must follow rules and restrictions in state waters relating to:

  • fish size, bag and boat limits, and possession limits
  • the correct types of fishing gear, including registering and marking your gear
  • temporal and spatial fishing closures
  • the complete protection of some species
  • responsible fish handling and reporting, including aquatic pests.

You do not need a licence for recreational fishing in South Australia. However, you will need a permit when fishing in certain reservoirs.

Fishwatch Hotline

Call the Fishwatch Hotline for information about:

  • rules and regulations
  • licensing and registration
  • reporting shark sightings

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Freecall 1800 065 522 Go to Reporting (Fishwatch)