 | Applying or renewing online takes about 5 minutes. |
Key info
- You can apply for a whitebait licence online at Inland Fisheries Service.
- You must have a licence to go whitebait fishing, and be 10 years or over.
- Whitebait recreational fishing needs its own licence, you cannot use other fishing licences.
- You cannot renew a whitebait licence, you must apply again.
| Get started | button_link | Please visit the Inland Fisheries Service to apply for a whitebait licence |  |
About applying for a whitebait licence
You can apply for a whitebait licence from 1 July until 11 November each year (the whitebait fishing season is from 1 October until 11 November each year).
How to apply
| Online | Service Centre | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Inland Fisheries Service | Find your nearest Service Centre | (03) 6165 3808 |
What you need to apply
If you want to apply for your licence online you must:
- provide your contact details
- pay a fee.
If you visit a service centre you must:
- complete an application form (only available at service centres)
- pay a fee.
Can I apply?
If you are 10 years or older you can apply for a whitebait licence.
Proving your identity
You do not need to prove your identity.
How much it costs
Seasonal licences
| Licence type | Adult | Pensioner | Senior | Older adult (80+ years) | Junior (14-17 years) | Young adult (18-21 years) |
| One season licence - one rod | $96 | $52.50 | $76 | $29 | No fee | $52.50 |
| One season licence - two rod | $115.50 | $62 | $85.50 | $38.50 | No fee | $62 |
| 5 season licence - one rod | $480 | $264.50 | $382 | $145 | N/A | N/A |
| 5 season licence - two rod | $578 | $313.50 | $431 | $192.50 | N/A | N/A |
| Same person - second rod | $19.50 | $9.50 | $9.50 | $9.50 | No fee | $9.50 |
Short term and other licences
| Licence type | Fee |
| Same person - second rod (short term) | $9.50 |
| 48 hours - one person, one rod | $29 |
| 48 hours - one person, two rod | $38.50 |
| 7 days - one person, one rod | $49 |
| 7 days - one person, two rod | $58.50 |
| 28 days - one person, one rod | $76 |
| 28 days - one person, two rod | $85.50 |
| Replacement | $3.50 |
| Whitebait | $39 |
| Whitebait - older adult (80+) | $29 |
Fees and charges last updated 1 July, 2026
Payment options
| Online |   |
|---|---|
| Service Centre |    |
More Information
Aboriginal fishers do need a fishing licence if fishing for trout or salmon and must comply with all fisheries rules, including:
- bag and possession limits
- size restrictions, and
- seasons
Please visit the Inland Fisheries Service for more information on applying for a whitebait licence.