Do children need a fishing permit?

Children under 12 are generally exempt when accompanied by a permit-holding adult, but they still count towards the adult's daily bag limit.

Where can I check bag limits and size limits?

The DFFE website publishes the annual recreational fisheries limits and closed seasons.

Can foreign tourists buy a permit?

Yes — bring your passport to any Post Office.

Tourism & Conservation

Temporary Recreational Fishing Permit

In plain English

A recreational fishing permit is required to fish along the SA coast, in estuaries and in many freshwater dams and rivers. Sea and estuary permits are issued by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and are sold at Post Office branches nationwide. Freshwater permits are issued by the provincial nature conservation authority.

View requirements Visit official website

Who needs this permit

Anyone fishing recreationally in South African waters, including tourists.

When is it required

Before every fishing trip. Fishing without a permit — even catch-and-release — is an offence.

Eligibility

You must produce ID or passport when buying the permit
Minors under 12 are usually exempt when accompanied by a permit-holding adult

Documents you need before applying

South African ID or passport
Cash or card for the permit fee
Know the daily bag limit and closed seasons for your target species

Download a printable checklist

A one-page PDF of everything you need to bring with you. Tick items off before you go.

How to apply — step by step

1
Decide which permit you need
Options: recreational marine linefishing, cast net, spear fishing, oyster/mussel, lobster (crayfish), or freshwater angling.
2
Buy the permit at your nearest Post Office
Marine permits are issued by SA Post Office on behalf of DFFE. Freshwater permits are sold by provincial nature conservation offices or tackle shops.
3
Carry the permit and your ID while fishing
Fisheries Control Officers can ask to see both at any time. Keep a photo on your phone as a backup.
4
Stick to bag limits and closed seasons
Bag limits are per person per day. Some species (like galjoen, west coast rock lobster) have specific closed seasons.

Where, how much, how long

Where to apply

Any SA Post Office branch (marine and estuary permits). Provincial conservation authority for freshwater permits — e.g. CapeNature, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Free State DESTEA.

Fees

Marine linefishing: about R94 per year. Cast net, spear, oyster/mussel and crayfish have separate fees. Freshwater fees vary by province.

Processing time

Issued on the spot at the Post Office counter.

Validity

Marine permits are valid for one year from date of issue.

Renewal

Buy a new permit each year — there is no renewal notification.