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23 Oct 2023

You can now apply for recreational fishing permit online

Gugu Myeni (Zululand Observer) Picture: Dave Savides. Fishing on the northern breakwater and the short pier at Alkantstrand is allowed but anglers must produce their fishing permits

Anglers can now apply for a recreational fishing permit online. This was announced by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) who said fishermen can apply for both monthly and annual permits.

“The online permitting system will enable enthusiastic recreational fishers and members of the public to easily access a recreational permit without having to travel distances to find a post office.

“Applicants will be able to choose the type of permit they require, select the period of validity, process payments and download the permit,” said Environment Minister Barbara Creecy.

She said the move was a result of the challenges faced by the department in issuing recreational fishing permits to the public through the South African Post Office (SAPO).

“Given the recent closure of a number of SAPO branches, the department embarked on a process to develop an in-house online platform to ensure accessibility for the public to purchase the recreational fishing permits electronically.

“The solution provides applicants with functional options to register, apply and obtain permits for recreational fishing in South African waters,” said Creecy.

Anglers will be able to choose the type of permit they require, select the period of validity, process payments and download the permit. Members of the public who have no internet access can, however, still use their nearest SAPO branch.

Link to access the online platform: https://www.fishing.dffe.gov.za