Fishing Permits & Regulations
Planning to fish in the Mackay Isaac Region? Whether you’re casting into freshwater dams, coastal estuaries or offshore reefs, it’s important to know when a permit is required—and how to fish within the rules that protect our world-class waterways.
This page gives you the key details to fish legally, confidently, and respectfully across the region.
Stocked Impoundment Permits (SIP)
If you're fishing in a freshwater dam stocked with barramundi, sooty grunter or other native species, you'll likely need a Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP).
Where you need a SIP:
- Kinchant Dam
- Teemburra Dam
- Eungella Dam
- Theresa Creek Dam
SIPs help fund restocking programs and maintain healthy freshwater fisheries across Queensland.
Who needs one?
Anyone over 18 years of age fishing with a line in a stocked impoundment.
Where to get one:
Purchase online via the official Queensland Government SIP portal. You can buy a short-term, annual, or family permit.
Saltwater & Estuary Fishing
No permit is required to fish in saltwater creeks, rivers, beaches or estuaries in Queensland. However, strict size and bag limits apply to many species, and seasonal closures are enforced for certain fish (like barramundi). The Mackay Net Free Zone, established in 2015, protects the waters between Cape Hillsborough, St Helens Beach and Seaforth. This means no commercial gill netting is allowed, creating a haven for recreational anglers and supporting sustainable fish stocks for the long term.
With thriving populations of barramundi, mangrove jack, grunter, flathead and more, Mackay’s estuary systems are among the best in Queensland for lure and bait fishing—whether you’re casting from a land based fishing platform, kayak, or boat.
Be sure to check:
- Barramundi closed season (east coast): 1 November to 31 January
- Species-specific size and possession limits (e.g. mud crab, flathead, whiting)
Check the latest rules via:
- The QLD Recreational Fishing Rules & App
- Or download the Qld Fishing 2.0 app for mobile-friendly updates
Offshore & Reef Fishing
Fishing offshore? Here’s what you need to know:
- You don’t need a general fishing licence, but reef species are protected under specific bag, size, and possession limits
- Green zones and Marine National Park zones (e.g. parts of the Great Barrier Reef) are no-take areas
- If you're on a charter, your guide will brief you and manage compliance—easy!
- Fishing from your own boat? Make sure you check maps of zoning and closed areas
- Use the Reef Authority Zoning Maps to avoid fines and fish responsibly.
Dugong & Marine Life Protection
If you're fishing or boating in dugong habitats like Clairview or the Hibiscus Coast, slow down, be alert, and follow all marine park signage. These are sensitive zones and protected under federal law. Respect the Rules. Protect the Future. Fishing is a way of life here—and we’re proud of the experiences our region offers. Following local regulations helps keep our waters healthy, fish stocks thriving, and everyone’s line in the water.
For more tips on responsible travel and environmental care, visit our Travel Responsibly page.